German leader sees many Syrians returning home
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested that many Syrians currently living in Germany may return to Syria over the next few years to aid in the country's reconstruction following its civil war.
- Syria's interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa highlighted the significant contributions of Syrians in Germany, including 6,000 doctors and over 250,000 taxpayers, and proposed a circular immigration model allowing skilled Syrians to work in Syria without losing their stability in Germany.
- Merz emphasized repatriating Syrians who have committed crimes and expressed Germany's interest in retaining well-integrated Syrians, while also supporting Syria's economic revival amid regional conflicts.
- The meeting included a German-Syrian economic roundtable focused on rebuilding Syria, with Merz assuring Germany's support for Syria's future development.
