Damascus, Syria – Syrian transitional president Ahmad Al-Shar’a will travel to Paris on Wednesday for an official visit with French President Emmanuel Macron, his first trip to a European country since taking office following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024.
Al-Shar’a’s trip follows a formal invitation from Macron extended in February, signaling France’s renewed engagement in shaping Syria’s political future.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Élysée Palace said Macron would welcome Al-Shar’a in Paris and “reaffirm France’s support for building a new, free, sovereign and stable Syria that respects all components of its society.”
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“This meeting reflects France’s historic commitment to the Syrian people in their pursuit of peace and democracy,” the statement added. Macron is also expected to reiterate long-standing French concerns about regional stability, particularly in neighboring Lebanon, and the fight against terrorism.
The Syrian presidency first confirmed plans for the trip on Monday, without specifying a date, according to Reuters.
Al-Shar’a’s visit follows that of his foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shibani, who attended the Paris Conference on Syria in February and held talks with French and European officials, including Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.
A month earlier, Macron visited Damascus with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, where both leaders met Al-Shar’a to discuss the country’s path forward.
Speaking at the close of the Paris conference, Macron described Syria’s transitional administration as “a source of hope for all Syrians,” calling on the international community to provide meaningful support. He also advocated for the integration of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into a new national army, citing their role in defeating Islamic State (ISIS).
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“France will not abandon the SDF,” Macron said, acknowledging their sacrifices and emphasizing their role in ensuring Syria’s long-term security.
The visit to Paris marks a diplomatic milestone for the transitional government and may pave the way for broader European involvement in Syria’s reconstruction and political transition.
