Syria’s new leader meets French, German foreign ministers in Damascus

Ahmed Al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s new administration, met with the foreign ministers of France and Germany at the presidential palace in Damascus, AFP reported.

This marks the first high-level meeting between Al-Sharaa and Western officials, AFP added.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed hope for a "sovereign, stable, and peaceful" Syria during his first visit to the country.

Speaking from the French embassy in Damascus, Barrot said, "Less than a month ago, a new hope emerged thanks to the mobilization of Syrians."

He added that he hoped for a sovereign and peaceful Syria, calling it "a real but fragile hope," AFP reported.