Macron in Damascus: Al-Sharaa Praises French Role in Supporting Syria's Stability and Reconstruction

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in the Syrian capital, Damascus, today, Monday, on an official visit that holds significant historical and strategic dimensions. He was received at Damascus International Airport by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani, amidst official reception ceremonies reflecting the two countries' desire to inaugurate a new phase of bilateral relations.

In his first statement coinciding with the visit, Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa praised the French role, which he described as 'constructive,' regarding the Syrian issue. Al-Sharaa affirmed in an interview with French media that Paris stood by the aspirations of the Syrians, considering it a key partner and a loyal friend to the people in their endeavor to liberate themselves from the previous era of tyranny.

The Syrian President explained that France played a pivotal role in breaking Syria's international isolation and facilitating its openness to the international community in recent months. He pointed out that Damascus succeeded in overcoming significant diplomatic obstacles, paving the way for building strong relations with active international powers, with France at the forefront.

This visit comes laden with heavy economic files, as President Macron is accompanied by a high-level delegation including investors and heads of major French companies. This economic representation aims to explore investment opportunities and contribute to the revival of the Syrian economy after years of stagnation and destruction left by conflicts.

Al-Sharaa revealed the intention of both sides to sign a set of joint agreements that will form the cornerstone of the Syrian state's reconstruction process. These understandings will focus on vital areas including reconstruction and infrastructure development, in addition to empowering government institutions to provide their services efficiently.

The Syrian President stressed his country's need for advanced technical expertise possessed by France, especially as Syria enters a phase of comprehensive recovery. He considered that the currently available Syrian capabilities require partnerships with technologically advanced countries to ensure the implementation of sustainable development projects according to the highest international standards.

The two presidents are scheduled to hold a round of discussions involving the accompanying delegations to discuss regional and international issues of common interest. The discussions will focus on coordinating political stances and enhancing prospects for cooperation in various sectors, serving the mutual interests of the French and Syrian peoples.

This visit is the first by a French president to Damascus since 2009, representing a radical shift in French foreign policy towards the Syrian file. Observers believe that this move reflects international recognition of the new political reality in Syria and a desire to contribute effectively to the stability of the region.

The Media Directorate of the Syrian Presidency had paved the way for this visit with an official announcement emphasizing the importance of continuous political dialogue. Through this summit, Damascus aspires to consolidate its new international position and strengthen partnerships that ensure the flow of necessary investments for the post-war phase.

France was considered one of the friends of the Syrian people during the Syrian revolution and was a supporter of the path to achieving freedom and dignity.