French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Tuesday that France is prepared to assist in rebuilding Syria's economy and banking sector, during a visit to Damascus that proceeded despite two bomb explosions near a hotel where he was holding meetings.
Macron's pledge at press conference
At a joint press conference with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Macron said: “We want to continue working on the restructuring of the banking sector.” He added that France is working on helping the Syrian central bank.
Sharaa seeks France as primary partner
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, speaking alongside Macron, expressed his desire for France to become a primary partner for Damascus. He highlighted Syria's regained role as a transit hub following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. “After the Strait of Hormuz crisis, the world realized the value of safe and stable corridors... here the importance of Syrian geography is highlighted, which today has regained its vital role as an indispensable link in the global corridors market, and we want France to be our primary partner in this path,” Sharaa said during an economic forum with Macron and representatives from both countries.
Bomb explosions near meeting venue
The visit occurred amid security concerns after two bombs exploded near the hotel where Macron had been holding meetings. Despite the incidents, the French president pressed on with his agenda in Damascus.
Context and implications
Macron's visit marks a significant step in Franco-Syrian relations, as France offers support for Syria's economic recovery. The focus on banking sector restructuring and central bank assistance underscores the priority given to financial stability in the rebuilding process. Sharaa's emphasis on Syria's geographic importance as a transit hub signals a strategic shift towards leveraging its location for global trade corridors, with France as a key ally.
