Germany and Syria Announce 80% Refugee Return Over Three Years
Key Takeaways
- Chancellor Merz aims to repatriate about 80% of Syrians in Germany within three years.
- Merz and interim President al-Sharaa coordinate refugee return and Syria's reconstruction plan.
- Germany hosts about 900,000 Syrian refugees, the group targeted for return.
Return Plan Announced
Merz and al-Sharaa announced plans to facilitate the return of around 80% of Syrians currently residing in Germany.
“Interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has been received by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin before talks with Chancellor Friedrich Merz on rebuilding his country and the return of refugees”
Merz emphasized that many Syrians wanted to return and play an important role in rebuilding their country.
Priority on Illegal Residents and Criminals
The initial priority would be returning those who no longer have valid residence rights, especially criminal offenders.
Those well integrated and wishing to stay would be able to remain.
Syria-EU Diplomatic Normalization
Al-Sharaa's visit marked the first trip by Syria's leader to an EU country since the war began.
“- Published Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz says that he and the Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa hope that 80% of the Syrians in Germany will return home in the next three years”
Germany has led efforts to reintegrate Syria into regional diplomacy following Assad's ouster.
Political Sensitivity and Opposition
The repatriation plan remains politically sensitive in Germany.
The Iraqi Kurdish Regional Government expressed concern about safety and voluntariness.
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