German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Monday during a visit to Berlin by Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa that he seeks to return 80% of Syrians residing in Germany, numbering over 900,000, to their homeland. During a joint press conference with al-Sharaa in Berlin on Monday, the leader of the German Christian Democratic Party stated: "In the long term, over the next three years, and based on the desire also expressed by President al-Sharaa, it is planned that about 80% of Syrians currently residing in Germany will return to their homeland." Merz said that the majority of Syrians who fled to Germany during the era of ousted President Bashar al-Assad wish to return to their country to rebuild it and live there in safety, freedom, and dignity. The German Chancellor, addressing President al-Sharaa, said: "These people will be welcome with you," expressing his appreciation for al-Sharaa's statement on the matter as well. He added: "And perhaps this was the main message of your visit to Berlin today." Merz expressed his belief that political stability and economic growth in Syria will be crucial factors for the success of the reconstruction efforts. He added: "This should be primarily helped by those who return to Syria, bringing with them new experiences and ideas drawn from their years in Germany and around the world."
