Angela Merkel has publicly criticized the German government's practice of denying asylum seekers at the borders, insisting that anyone expressing a desire for asylum should undergo a formal procedure, regardless of their location.

Her remarks came during a meeting with former refugees at a Syrian restaurant in Berlin, which was organized by WDR and featured in a segment on ARD's 'Morgenmagazin'.

She emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of genuine asylum seekers alongside preventing people smugglers from controlling immigration.

Merkel cautioned against allowing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) to dominate migration discussions, advocating for a balanced approach that upholds Germany's values while addressing illegal migration concerns.

Merkel also highlighted the responsibility of the new government to assist former Afghan local staff awaiting entry into Germany, stressing the need to honor past commitments.

The Berlin Administrative Court recently ruled that the denial of asylum to three Somali seekers at a border control was unlawful, aligning with Merkel's stance on ensuring proper asylum procedures.

Despite this ruling, Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt maintains that such rejections are isolated incidents and plans to continue current practices.

Dobrindt's ministry argues that individuals arriving from safe countries should not be classified as asylum seekers, a position defended by Chancellery Chief Thorsten Frei.

Merkel has likened her consistent critiques of current Chancellor Friedrich Merz's approach to migration policy to that of a groundhog, indicating her ongoing commitment to humanitarian principles.

She criticized the imbalance in migration discussions, noting that there is often more focus on the challenges posed by migrants than on their experiences.

In a related development, the Bundestag voted to suspend family reunification for individuals with subsidiary protection status for two years, affecting many Syrian refugees.

The refugee protection organization Pro Asyl plans to legally challenge this decision, arguing it is inhumane and causes unnecessary suffering.