Key facts
- French President Emmanuel Macron will host Syrian counterpart Ahmed al-Sharaa on Wednesday.
- This is al-Sharaa's first visit to Europe.
- Macron will express France's support for a new Syrian state.
- Macron will press demands for regional stability and counter-terrorism efforts.
- Syria's new leadership has pledged inclusive governance and protection for all communities.
- Recent clashes and alleged abuses have raised concerns about the interim government's control.
French President Emmanuel Macron is set to host Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Paris on Wednesday for the latter's inaugural visit to Europe. The meeting signifies a shift in diplomatic engagement following the toppling of former ruler Bashar al-Assad.
During the summit, Macron intends to reaffirm France's commitment to the establishment of a new Syrian state that is free, stable, and inclusive of all societal components. The French presidency stated that the meeting is part of France's ongoing support for the Syrian people's aspirations for peace and democracy.
Macron is also expected to convey specific demands to the Syrian government, focusing on the stabilization of the region, particularly Lebanon, and the ongoing fight against terrorism. This engagement follows Macron's earlier invitations to Syria's new interim leader, made conditional on the formation of an inclusive government.
Syria's new leadership, with roots in the al-Qaeda network, has pledged to govern inclusively and protect all religious groups. However, recent sectarian clashes and reports of abuses have cast doubt on the interim government's ability to maintain control and manage extremist elements within its ranks. Israel has also conducted strikes in Syria, which the interim government has condemned as a "dangerous escalation."