Khaberni - Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa expressed a cautious stance regarding the return of Syrian refugees in Germany, emphasizing the link between their return and reconstruction as well as the necessity to provide a sufficient number of job opportunities and attract foreign companies.
Al-Sharaa made these statements during his participation in an event in the British capital, London, during an official visit he is making to the United Kingdom coming from Germany.
The event presenter referenced Al-Sharaa saying that 80% of Syrians in Germany "should return to their homeland." According to the translation by the organizing body "Chatham House," Al-Sharaa replied that this statement "is somewhat exaggerated."
He confirmed that it was the German Chancellor, Friedrich Meretz, who made that statement, not him. The original Arabic text of the statement is not yet available.
Al-Sharaa added that the return of Syrian refugees is linked to the reconstruction of the country, pointing out the necessity to provide a sufficient number of job opportunities and attract foreign companies.
He also emphasized that the return of the refugees should be organized. According to the translation, Al-Sharaa said that "if suitable conditions are available, he guarantees the return of 80% of the people to their homeland," meaning to Syria.
The German Chancellor had mentioned after his meeting with Al-Sharaa last Monday at the Chancellery in Berlin that the goal is to return 80% of more than 900,000 Syrians in Germany to their homeland over the next three years.
The Chancellor then clarified yesterday, Tuesday, saying: "The figure of 80% returning over three years was mentioned by the Syrian President. We were informed of this number, but we realize the magnitude of the task."
