Germany to enable ‘voluntary, secure’ returns for Syrian refugees – POLITICO

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.

Following the regime’s ouster, Austria on Monday announced plans to deport Syrian migrants, while Belgium, France, Greece and Germany decided to pause Syrian asylum applications.

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.” A new civilian government, it argues, should involve “all relevant societal forces and excluding terrorist groups.”