BERLIN

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa will visit Berlin next week for his first official trip to Germany since taking office, the government announced Friday.

Deputy government spokesman Sebastian Hille said al-Sharaa's two-day visit will begin on Jan. 19 and will focus on enhancing political and economic relations between the two countries.

He told reporters that following a bilateral meeting with Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Tuesday, the Syrian president will participate in a roundtable discussion with representatives of major German companies, where Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Economy Minister Katherina Reiche will also be present.

"We are interested in deepening relations and making a fresh start with the new Syrian government, and we have many important issues to address," Hille said.

He noted that the discussions will cover the latest regional developments, Syria's political transition, economic recovery, and refugee returns.

Al-Sharaa is also scheduled to meet with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace on Tuesday.