German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul will on Thursday make his first visit to Syria to meet representatives of the new government including President Ahmed al-Sharaa, his ministry said.

Axar.az informs, citing Al Arabiya, “With the overthrow of the Assad dictatorship, the people of Syria have entered a new era,” Wadephul said in a statement released by his ministry, referring to ousted leader Bashar al-Assad.

Wadephul and a German parliament delegation will meet Sharaa and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani before travelling on to Lebanon and Bahrain, his ministry said.

“Syria faces immense challenges,” Wadephul said.

“It needs a government that guarantees all citizens, regardless of gender, religious, ethnic or social affiliation, a life of dignity and security.”

Germany has a large Syrian community as hundreds of thousands settled there after fleeing the country’s civil war.

“Many have not only found protection here, but also a new home,” Wadephul said.

“Some are also considering returning to Syria to rebuild their country. I would like to deepen this special relationship between our countries together with our partners in Syria.”