(MENAFN) Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul announced that the government aims to create conditions that would allow Syrian refugees to return to their country voluntarily.

"Syrians should be encouraged to return voluntarily and enabled to do so, so they can rebuild their country," Wadephul said during a press briefing in Berlin, emphasizing that he and Chancellor Friedrich Merz are aligned on this approach.

He explained that discussions are ongoing with Syrian officials regarding the deportation of individuals who have committed crimes or are considered a threat to public safety. Simultaneously, Germany is seeking to bolster Syria’s economic recovery to make the voluntary return of refugees feasible.

"We are going to convene the German-Syrian Business Council. This means my Syrian counterpart will be coming here. We will both lead it, and we will work concretely to ensure that this country has a chance to move forward and that we rebuild the neighborhoods. This will take some time," Wadephul added.

The minister also noted that if voluntary returns are insufficient, expulsions could be enforced for those lacking legal status, employment, or a residence permit in Germany.

"Germany has been very hospitable to many Syrians and has a legitimate interest in expecting those who found refuge here—supported by German taxpayers—to be prepared to return home if conditions allow and if they don't have employment and accommodation here," he said. "That's perfectly normal. We would like to facilitate this, and if it doesn't happen voluntarily, then there is also the possibility of the state initiating it—that's completely clear and beyond question."

Wadephul’s remarks reignited debate within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) over the issue of repatriating Syrians, following his previous comments questioning the feasibility of returns given the situation in their home country.

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