Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa sees Paris to bring back Western ties, look for sanctions relief, and bring in financial investment, as France signals mindful assistance connected to reforms and minority rights
[Damascus] Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa started his very first main European see considering that presuming power in December 2024. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani and Minister of Emergency situation Affairs Mohammad al-Ali, al-Sharaa’s journey to Paris marks a possible juncture in Syria’s worldwide relations, especially with Western countries that had actually severed ties throughout the lengthened civil dispute.
Al-Sharaa, previously the leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, an Islamist group with previous associations to al-Qaeda, increased to power following the ousting of Bashar Assad. In spite of his questionable background, the United Nations gave him an unique exemption to take a trip to France, where he met President Emmanuel Macron. The conversations concentrated on Syria’s sovereignty, defense of minority rights, counter-terrorism efforts, and opportunities for worldwide help, consisting of prospective easing of sanctions to assist in financial healing after 14 years of civil war.
France’s participation in Syrian affairs go back to the post-World War I age, when it held a required over the area. The bilateral relationship has actually experienced variations, especially degrading after the Syrian uprising in 2011, when France condemned Assad’s program and closed its embassy in Damascus. Nevertheless, current advancements recommend a careful re-engagement. France has actually selected a chargé d’affaires in Damascus and is checking out opportunities to support Syria’s shift while guaranteeing local stability.
Political expert Wael al-Khalidi keeps in mind that al-Sharaa’s see intends to safe worldwide assistance for Syria’s political shift and supporter for lifting or reducing European sanctions set to end in June. The Syrian management likewise looks for foreign financial investment, especially in facilities, to rejuvenate the war-torn economy. Nevertheless, obstacles continue, consisting of al-Sharaa’s past and issues over minority rights under the brand-new federal government.
Reporter Firas al-Ali, based in France, highlights that regardless of diplomatic overtures, suspicion stays concerning al-Sharaa’s dedication to inclusive governance. The existence of HTS in the political landscape raises concerns about the future treatment of minorities such as the Druze and Alawites, who fear marginalization or retribution.
France approaches the restored engagement with Syria meticulously. While acknowledging the need of supporting Syria’s restoration and political stabilization, French authorities highlight the value of human rights and counter-terrorism. The current contract with French logistics huge CMA CGM to handle and broaden the port of Latakia suggests a determination to invest financially, offered that the Syrian federal government shows a dedication to reforms.
An authorities from the Syrian Ministry of Details specified that conversations in between al-Sharaa and Macron would concentrate on restoration efforts and financial cooperation, especially in the energy and air travel sectors. The Élysée Palace repeated France’s assistance for a “complimentary, steady, and sovereign Syria that appreciates all elements of Syrian society.”
Historically, France has actually been a considerable trading partner for Syria. In the early 2000s, Syrian exports to France, primarily oil, represented a significant part of bilateral trade. Especially, in 2001, Syria’s trade surplus with France reached 5.5 billion Syrian pounds, mostly due to oil exports. French imports to Syria consisted of chemicals, commercial items, and autos.
In 2008, France’s Lafarge signed agreements worth $1.2 billion to develop 2 cement plants in Syria, marking among the biggest foreign financial investments in the nation. By 2009, France was amongst Syria’s leading 5 trading partners, with oil making up 80% of Syrian exports to France.
Nevertheless, the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011 resulted in a cessation of main financial cooperation, with the European Union enforcing sanctions on the Assad program. In spite of this, restricted private-sector trade continued, including pharmaceuticals, farming products, and durable goods.
Since 2021, France’s GDP went beyond $2.9 trillion, with a development rate of around 7%. The per capita GDP stood at over $43,500, and the joblessness rate was around 5.1%. France exports over 4,000 items to around 225 nations, with Germany, Italy, and Belgium being essential trade partners.
Al-Sharaa’s check out to Paris represents a tactical relocate to reestablish Syria into the worldwide neighborhood. Success depends upon the interim federal government’s capability to develop inclusive organizations, support human rights, and work together with international partners. France appears available to supporting Syria’s shift, contingent upon concrete reforms and guarantees.