Despite violence against Christians: Syrian rulers received in Berlin
"The German government is pursuing dialogue with Syria's interim president, al-Sharaa. At the same time, various minorities in Syria, including Christians, are being persecuted and oppressed. The government nevertheless hopes for the return of Syrian refugees.
It is likely to be one of the most controversial state visits of the year: Syrian interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet with the German government today. He was first received by Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at his official residence, Bellevue Palace.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) are also meeting with the Syrian leader. This comes despite critics accusing al-Sharaa of serious crimes against minorities in Syria.
Last weekend, for example, armed Islamists reportedly attacked Christian businesses. In the western Syrian city of Suqaylabiyah, the attackers also allegedly attempted to set fire to several houses. Since the overthrow of dictator Assad in December 2024, attacks on Alawites, Druze, Kurds, and Christians in Syria have been increasing.
"In the last 12 months, 27 Christians have been killed by Islamist violence. Constant attacks, regular threats, and growing pressure to convert to Islam are creating a climate of fear," says Markus Rode, head of Open Doors Germany. Open Doors is an international Christian aid organization."
Die Bundesregierung setzt auf Dialog mit Syriens Übergangspräsident al-Scharaa. Gleichzeitig werden in Syrien verschiedene Minderheiten, darunter Christen, bedrängt und unterdrückt. Die Regierung hofft dennoch auf eine Rückkehr syrischer Flüchtlinge.
de.euronews.com
