Syrian Leader Ahmad Al Shara’s Historic Meeting with Macron in Paris
Syrian leader Ahmad Al Shara is visiting France for a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron, marking his first trip to a Western nation since taking power. Despite ongoing sectarian violence at home, the visit underscores France’s support for a stable Syrian society. Al Shara aims to discuss reconstruction and stability, as international sanctions continue to hinder Syria’s recovery.
Ahmad Al Shara, the recently appointed Syrian leader, is set to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday. This marks Al Shara’s inaugural trip to a Western nation amid ongoing sectarian violence back home. Macron’s advisor noted, “The fact that we are the first western country to receive Ahmad Al Shara shows the President’s continued support to the Syrian people.” Al Shara, once a rebel leader during the civil war, currently faces UN sanctions, compelling France to seek a temporary exemption for his visit.
During the Paris meeting, President Macron aims to underscore France’s backing for a peaceful, stable, and sovereign Syria that respects all its community factions. Macron’s office stated this meeting aligns with France’s long-standing commitment to support the Syrian people in their quest for democracy. He intends to address the pressing issues in Syria, emphasizing regional stabilization and counter-terrorism efforts.
The meeting’s outcomes will be disclosed in a joint press conference on Tuesday evening, following some diplomatic back-and-forth since Macron’s initial invitation in February. Macron’s comments prior to the meeting hinted at a positive tone, underlining the necessity for an inclusive government in Syria that reflects its diverse civil society.
Al Shara has pledged to foster an environment in Syria that upholds the rights of its various religious and ethnic groups. This comes at a time when France is re-engaging diplomatically, having previously sent its Foreign Minister to Damascus after rebel forces ousted Bashar Al Assad late last year. However, the re-establishment of official ties has been slow, with France planning to announce a new charge d’affaires to Syria, following years of strained relations.
The recent agreement between Syria and the French shipping company CMA CGM mentioned investments totaling €230 million at Latakia port—a signal of potential economic recovery. Analysts indicate that the recovery process, however, remains hindered by a staggering estimated cost of $250 billion due to prolonged civil unrest and sanctions, primarily from the US.
While discussing his plans in Paris, Al Shara faces the backdrop of rising sectarian violence in Syria—over 1,700 reported deaths recently—which raises questions about his government’s capacity to manage extremist elements. Notably, Israel has conducted numerous airstrikes against Syria, aiming to protect the Druze minority amidst the chaos, and asserting its readiness to intervene if necessary.
Al Shara’s journey to France is more than a diplomatic overture—it’s part of a larger strategy to reintegrate Syria into the international community. In recent weeks, Syrian officials have engaged with US representatives for the first time in years, and there are efforts to address Syria’s World Bank debts through collaboration with neighboring states like Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Britain has also recently eased several sanctions related to Syria, marking a shift in the foreign policy landscape toward the country.
Ahmad Al Shara’s upcoming meeting with French President Macron is a pivotal moment in Syria’s attempt to regain its footing in the international arena. While addressing the challenges of sectarian violence and economic recovery, this visit reflects broader efforts to establish diplomatic ties and seek financial assistance. Amid ongoing negotiations and sanctions, Al Shara’s administration is advocating for a united, multi-religious governance structure while navigating the complexities of foreign relations that have been strained for years.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
