Germany backs Syrian government control over security forces in all regions

BERLIN

Germany on Wednesday expressed support for the Syrian government's goal of exercising authority over security forces throughout the country.

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told lawmakers during a parliamentary debate that Germany seeks a secure and stable Syria and aims to strengthen cooperation with Damascus.

"The central government rightly insists that it -- and not others -- exercise the monopoly of force in all parts of Syria. And a fundamental agreement on this must also be possible in northeastern Syria," he said.

Wadephul dismissed criticism from opposition lawmakers who accused his government of failing to pressure Damascus to halt military operations against theterrorist YPG/SDF group, which has violated earlier ceasefire agreements.

The minister emphasized that Germany's international partners -- including the US, the UK, and France -- also support Syria's political process and the integration of northeastern Syria into a unitary, sovereign state.

"It's clear that this must happen peacefully, that it's a process involving the gradual integration of the SDF forces into the Syrian army. We are working towards this, and ultimately, it will have to happen," he said.

Wadephul also noted that Germany and its Western partners have announced their support for the 15-day ceasefire extension between the Syrian government and the SDF, and await the implementation of the agreements reached by the parties.