Syrian Interim President Visits Paris
PARIS – Ahmad Alshara, the interim president of Syria, is in Paris for discussions with President Emmanuel Macron, marking his first visit to Europe since he assumed office in January. This meeting could potentially pave the way for stronger ties between Syria and Western nations.
Alshara rose to power following a series of attacks by the Muslim group Hayat Taharil al-Sham (HTS), which resulted in the ousting of former President Bashar Assad in December. Assad, who belonged to the Alawian minority, had been in power for over two decades.
The Presidential Palace indicated that Macron plans to reaffirm France’s commitment to supporting a “free and stable sovereign Syria that respects all components of society,” as well as to stress the importance of regional stability, particularly concerning the situation in Lebanon.
This visit happens amid escalating violence, with nearly 100 fatalities reported between forces loyal to Alshara and Druze fighters. Earlier conflicts in coastal regions of Syria had already seen Sunni gunmen clashing with members of the Alawian sect, leading to over 1,000 deaths, many resulting from revenge attacks.
Religious minorities in Syria, including Alawis, Christians, and Druze, are increasingly concerned about potential persecution under governments primarily led by Sunni Muslims. Alshara has consistently voiced his commitment to ensuring equal treatment for all Syrians, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
The ongoing 14-year conflict has claimed nearly half a million lives and displaced millions, leaving much of Syria’s infrastructure in ruins. The international sanctions in place continue to hinder reconstruction efforts.
Alshara’s visit to Paris is being closely observed as a potential assessment of Europe’s readiness to engage with Syria’s new leadership.
Though the Trump administration has not officially recognized Alshara’s government, the HTS remains designated as a terrorist organization by the US, and sanctions under Assad continue. However, Washington has relaxed some restrictions by issuing a temporary general license earlier this year that allowed specific transactions with the Syrian government, including energy sales.
The European Union has started to ease certain sanctions, suspending measures aimed at Syria’s oil, gas, and electricity sectors, alongside transport and banking restrictions. Additionally, the UK government recently lifted sanctions against 12 Syrian groups, incorporating the government sector and state-run media.
