Germany’s Interior Minister, Nancy Faeser, has called for a joint European approach to the possible return of Syrian refugees.
In its eight-point plan, Germany says the toppling of the Assad regime “is good news for Syria and for the world,” but also warns of terrorism risks.
The plan suggests the creation of a “Friends of Syria” group between Arab and Western states to minimize harmful influences. “The approach to Iran and Russia remains to be seen,” it says.
It also emphasizes the need for a cease-fire and for a commitment to reaching a “power-sharing agreement that upholds Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Germany’s plan comes days after rebel groups entered the Syrian capital Damascus on Sunday and declared it free of the Russia-backed regime of President Assad. Hours later, Assad reportedly fled the country and was granted asylum in Russia.
EU countries should exchange information on developments in Syria, she said, adding that some more time is needed to understand where Syria is headed.
Several EU countries, including Germany, Austria and Italy, suspended asylum proceedings for Syrians after former Syrian ruler Bashar al-Assad fled from the country on Sunday.
