With the defeat of the Assad dictatorship, the people of Syria have entered a new era. We now want to support them in taking the future of their country into their own hands.

We know the nightmare the Syrian people have lived through. Twelve years of civil war have left deep wounds that will take many years – perhaps even decades – to heal.

Syria faces immense challenges. To tackle them, it needs a government that guarantees all its citizens, regardless of their gender, religion, ethnicity or social status, a life in dignity and security. This is essential in order to now lay the foundation for a free, safe and stable Syria, and I will emphasise as much during my talks.

Germany is helping to build this foundation. Through the lifting of all economic sanctions on Syria, which was in no small part thanks to our early efforts at European level. Through humanitarian assistance and support for mine and ordnance clearance, and through rapidly establishing an embassy. And of course through investments in the Syrian economy that German companies are hoping to make.

Syria lies in the immediate neighbourhood of the European Union. Whatever happens in Syria has direct and indirect consequences for us in Germany as well. A stable Syria is in Germany’s interest. For this reason, too, we want to see Syria re-establish a healthy economy as soon as possible.

During the brutal civil war, over a million Syrians sought refuge in Germany. Many who came to us found not only protection, but a new home. Some are considering returning to Syria and rebuilding their country. Together with our partners in Syria, I would also like to deepen this special relationship between our two nations.