Syrian President Al-Sharaa to visit France in first European trip

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa will visit Paris on Wednesday in what will be his first official trip to Europe, according to the Élysée Palace, as reported by AFP.

French President Emmanuel Macron will receive al-Sharaa and is expected to reaffirm France’s support for a future Syria that is free, sovereign, stable, and inclusive of all segments of its society. The visit marks a cautious step in re-engaging with Syria following the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad in December, when he was ousted by an Islamist-led alliance headed by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham.

Macron initially invited al-Sharaa in early February, but by late March, the invitation was made conditional on the formation of an inclusive Syrian government and credible guarantees for the safe return of refugees.

“This meeting is part of France’s long-standing commitment to the Syrian people and their aspirations for peace and democracy,” the Élysée said.

Macron is also expected to raise key issues during the meeting, including the need for regional stability—particularly in Lebanon—and continued cooperation on counterterrorism efforts.

Since taking power, al-Sharaa has been seeking to lift the international sanctions imposed on Syria during Assad’s rule.