Germany has officially reopened its embassy in Syria's capital, Damascus, following a closure that lasted over 13 years due to the ongoing civil war.

This move comes three months after the fall of former President Bashar Assad.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, during her second visit to Syria since the regime's collapse, oversaw the embassy's reopening.

A small group of German diplomats will resume operations in Damascus, while consular activities, including visa services, will remain centralized in Beirut, Lebanon.

The reopening is notable in the context of evolving diplomatic relations between Berlin and the Syrian leadership, which continues to confront significant humanitarian and security challenges as it seeks to rebuild the war-torn nation.

Germany is home to over 1 million Syrians who fled the violence and instability stemming from the civil war.

During her visit, Baerbock engaged with Syria's transitional leaders, underlining the urgency of controlling and holding accountable extremist factions linked to recent violent clashes that have caused extensive casualties.

She remarked on the need to prevent further escalations and ensure accountability for those responsible for sectarian violence.

Her discussions in Damascus occurred shortly after deadly confrontations in northwestern Syria between Assad loyalists and newly established government forces, reportedly resulting in over 1,500 fatalities, primarily among civilians from the Alawite minority.

Prior to her trip, Baerbock condemned what she termed the 'targeted killing of civilians,' characterizing it as a heinous crime that undermines trust within the region.

She reiterated the necessity for the transitional leadership to maintain accountability and control over various factions operating in its territory.

Baerbock also reaffirmed Germany's ongoing support for humanitarian initiatives in Syria and signaled a potential easing of sanctions, depending on specific reforms.

She indicated that renewed diplomatic engagement between Syria and Europe, particularly with Germany, is possible and emphasized the importance of commitments to uphold freedom, security, and equal opportunities for all Syrians, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religion.

Additionally, Germany has pledged €300 million (approximately $325 million) in reconstruction aid, part of a larger donor conference resulting in total commitments of €5.8 billion.

Other European Union nations, including Italy and Spain, have also reopened their embassies in Syria, albeit at different times in relation to the status of Assad's regime.