Macron Arrives in Damascus

Macron Lands in Damascus

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived at Damascus International Airport on Monday, July 6, 2026, He was received by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani upon landing.

Speaking immediately after his arrival, Macron declared France's commitment to the Syrian people, stating: "I have come to express France's commitment to the Syrian people, for a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbours."

Diplomatic Significance of the Visit

The visit marks a significant milestone in French-Syrian relations. Macron had previously hosted Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Paris in May 2025, pledging at the time to push the European Union and the United States to lift sanctions on Syria, most of which have since been removed.

The last French president to visit Damascus was Nicolas Sarkozy in 2009, before the Assad government's violent suppression of pro-democracy protests in 2011 sparked a prolonged conflict that killed more than half a million people and devastated Syria's infrastructure.

Key Agenda Items

Discussions between the two sides are expected to cover a range of critical issues, including:

• Support for Syria's rebuilding efforts and promotion of French investment
• Strengthening bilateral economic and development cooperation
• Counterterrorism cooperation and regional security
• Syria's role in moderating tensions across the Middle East

French Business Delegation

Macron arrived alongside a delegation that includes representatives of French companies and investors, signalling concrete French interest in rebuilding opportunities and economic partnership with Damascus. Advisers to the French president indicated the visit aims to encourage Syria's new authorities to embrace a responsible partnership ith Europe and the wider world in the interest of the Syrian people.