A historic step was taken in diplomatic relations between Syria and France. At a joint press conference held in Damascus, President Ahmed al-Sharaa and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a comprehensive cooperation framework and agreed on an exchange of ambassadors between the two countries.
Al-Sharaa described Macron's visit as the first by a French president in 18 years, calling the meeting a historic turning point. Stating that Syria has opened its doors on the basis of equal partnership, al-Sharaa said the talks created a vital communication bridge between East and West.
Noting that the talks resulted in a package of strategic agreements and contracts with major French companies, al-Sharaa said this partnership would be based on concrete projects serving both peoples.
Addressing regional issues, the Syrian leader condemned Israel's violations that undermine regional security. He stressed that Israel must return to the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement and fully withdraw from the areas it has occupied since December 8, 2024.
Stating that Syria's stability depends on Lebanon's stability, al-Sharaa said Lebanon's sovereignty and institutions must be supported, state authority must be extended, and the legitimate monopoly on arms must be ensured.
French President Macron, for his part, said the Syrian people have shown the world they are united and invincible. Stating that France is committed to a free, sovereign, territorially integral and stable Syria, Macron noted they believe in Syria's return as a country at the center of energy corridors.
Macron stressed that they have interests in the rehabilitation of oil and trade infrastructure, rejecting all calls for division and supporting Syria's unity with all its components. He said the new Syria can only be built with the rule of law and that the state must establish control over all territories.
The French leader announced they will return to Syria more than 50 million euros, which were illicit gains of a person belonging to the former regime family. He stated they are ready to assist in the security field through capacity building, training and empowerment, will support Syria in international platforms, and contribute to reconstruction.
Condemning Israel's sovereignty violations once again, Macron said, 'Israel has no right to violate the sovereignty and security of neighboring countries.' Stating that they apply the principle of stability and security of states to all countries including Syria, Lebanon and Palestine, Macron said, 'Syria is a sovereign state, everyone occupying Syrian territory must withdraw.'
Macron concluded his speech by reiterating the decision to exchange ambassadors to build a new partnership between the two countries and expressing respect and appreciation for the Syrian people who fought for their freedom for 14 years.
