Germany news: Merz and Syrian president talk refugee returns
dw.com • • world
Key Points:
- Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa visited Berlin to discuss refugee repatriation and reconstruction, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz stating that about 80% of Syrians in Germany are expected to return home within three years.
- Merz's remarks on the mass return of Syrian refugees drew criticism from opposition parties and coalition members, who highlighted ongoing human rights concerns and the fragile security situation in Syria.
- Germany is balancing diplomatic engagement with Syria despite allegations of human rights abuses by al-Sharaa's government, with calls for linking reconstruction aid to guarantees on democracy, minority rights, and reconciliation.
- Inflation in Germany rose to an estimated 2.7% in March 2026, driven by increasing energy prices, while companies are planning further price hikes amid rising production and transport costs.
- New regulations will limit gasoline price increases to once per day starting April 1 to curb price volatility, and camping tourism hit record overnight stays in Germany despite rising costs.
