French President Macron Becomes First Western Leader to Visit Syria Since Civil War

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Damascus on Monday, becoming the first European leader to officially visit Syria since the outbreak of the civil war. During his visit, Macron met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, signaling France's intent to renew its historically close ties with Syria. The visit comes ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, which Macron is scheduled to attend after leaving Syria.

Macron’s visit strengthens Syria’s regional standing and al-Assad’s position ahead of key discussions at the NATO summit, where al-Assad is also expected to be present. Syria is considered a protégé of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is hosting the summit. The visit also reflects France’s involvement in the future of the divided country, with Macron calling for an immediate Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and an end to hostilities from both Israel and Hezbollah.

The timing and details of Macron’s visit were kept secret until his arrival in Damascus. Macron expressed France’s commitment to the Syrian people and support for a free, pluralistic Syria that plays a stabilizing role in the region. He also announced the return of archaeological artifacts held by the French-Arab Institute since 2010, which had been on loan before the civil war began in 2011 but could not be returned until now.

Macron had invited al-Assad to visit France about a year ago, marking a thaw in relations. The visit is the first by a French president since Nicolas Sarkozy’s trip in 2009. This diplomatic move highlights France’s strategic interest in Syria amid ongoing regional tensions and international negotiations.