French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Syria for talks aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation on a range of political and economic issues, according to
Syria's presidential media directorate.
The visit, which will mark a significant step in the evolving relationship between Paris and Damascus, is expected to include high-level meetings between Macron and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The discussions will focus on enhancing diplomatic engagement, economic cooperation, reconstruction efforts, and other matters of mutual interest.
Macron will be accompanied by a delegation of French investors and representatives from leading French companies. During the visit, the French delegation is expected to participate in a roundtable meeting with President al-Sharaa, Syrian officials, and representatives from the country's business community. The talks are expected to explore investment opportunities and potential partnerships as Syria seeks to rebuild key sectors of its economy.
The Syrian presidency did not announce a date for the visit.
France–Syria relations
Relations between France and Syria have experienced dramatic changes over the past several decades. France administered Syria under a League of Nations mandate from 1920 until Syrian independence in 1946, leaving behind historical, cultural, and educational ties that continue to influence relations between the two countries.
Diplomatic relations deteriorated sharply after the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011. France became one of the strongest European critics of the government of former President Bashar al-Assad, supported opposition groups politically, imposed sanctions alongside the European Union, and suspended most high-level diplomatic contacts. The French embassy in Damascus was closed in 2012, while France remained involved in humanitarian assistance and efforts to combat the Islamic State group in Syria.
Following the political transition in Syria and the establishment of a new leadership under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, France has gradually reopened channels of communication with Damascus. French officials have expressed support for an inclusive political process, the protection of minority communities, and measures aimed at stabilizing the country after years of conflict.
Economic cooperation is also becoming an increasingly important part of the relationship. French businesses have shown interest in participating in Syria's reconstruction, particularly in infrastructure, energy, transportation, healthcare, telecommunications, and cultural heritage restoration. Any expansion of investment, however, is expected to depend on continued political progress and the international sanctions framework.
Macron's planned visit reflects France's broader effort to re-engage with Syria while encouraging political dialogue, regional stability, and economic recovery. The outcome of the talks could shape future cooperation between the two countries and signal a new phase in French-Syrian relations after more than a decade of limited diplomatic engagement. Photo by anjči from London, UK, Wikimedia commons.
