Syria’s President Embarks on Landmark European Visit Amid Ongoing Turmoil

President al-Shara’s first European visit underscores his challenges in navigating both international relations and domestic skepticism post-civil war.

President Ahmed al-Shara of Syria arrived in Paris on Wednesday for his inaugural trip to a European country since taking office, marking a significant step in his efforts to reestablish Syria’s presence on the global stage. This visit unfolds against a backdrop of continuing unrest and sectarian strife as the nation seeks to recover from over a decade of civil war.

During his visit, al-Shara met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace, an encounter seen as both a diplomatic triumph and a crucial test for the Syrian president amidst skepticism both domestically and internationally. Macron and al-Shara discussed various critical topics, including Syria’s political evolution, security measures, the combat against terrorism, economic assistance, and broader regional stability. Macron expressed particular concern regarding ongoing sectarian conflict and prompted al-Shara to continue progressing towards a "free, sovereign, and pluralistic Syria."

However, the meeting has attracted criticism from some right-wing factions in France, who questioned the propriety of welcoming al-Shara, given his association with Islamist militants and the ongoing violence plaguing Syria. Currently, al-Shara remains on a terrorism sanctions list and required a special exemption from the United Nations for this trip. France’s recent history of Islamist terrorism, marked by numerous attacks, has made public sentiment towards such engagements particularly sensitive.

In response to concerns, Jean-Noël Barrot, France's foreign minister, emphasized that France is not extending unconditional support and will evaluate al-Shara's actions moving forward.