Macron on an unusual visit to Syria

TT

Published 19.03

 

Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris last May. Photo: Stephanie Lecocq/AP/TT

France's Emmanuel Macron arrived in Syria on Monday for the first visit by a Western European head of state or government since Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa took office in 2024.

During his visit to Damascus, Macron will advocate "a free, pluralistic Syria that respects each of its components" that can play a role in easing tensions in the Middle East, according to a statement from his office.

The two countries' "bilateral relations" and issues of "common interest" are also on the agenda.

Macron, who was welcomed by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, is accompanied by a delegation of investors and other representatives of the French business community.

The French president met with Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa in Paris last year.

Macron leaves Syria on Tuesday.