PARIS, 8th May, 2025 (WAM) -- French President Emmanuel Macron received Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa yesterday, Wednesday, at the Elysee Palace in Paris, marking Al-Sharaa's first visit to Europe. The two leaders held a meeting followed by a joint press conference.

In his remarks, President Macron stated that France is prepared to proceed with a gradual lifting of European sanctions imposed on Syria, provided that the interim Syrian government commits to a path of reform and change.

"I informed President Al-Sharaa that continued progress on this path would be met with further steps from our side, starting with the continuation of lifting European sanctions, followed by engaging with our American partners to adopt the same approach, and finally, working with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to establish a regional framework for the return of Syrians, particularly skilled professionals," Macron said.

He stressed the importance of delaying the US withdrawal from Syrian territories, warning that such a move at this stage could threaten regional and international security. Macron added that it is in everyone's interest, including the United States, to support efforts for return and reconstruction while postponing the withdrawal of troops, given the ongoing security threats.

"France continues to view Daesh (ISIS) as the greatest terrorist threat," Macron said, emphasising that security cooperation with Syria would be essential in the coming phase.

For his part, Ahmad Al-Sharaa stated that Syria is open to dialogue and cooperation with all regional and international parties, noting that the country has already begun indirect negotiations with Israel to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.

On the issue of sanctions, Al-Sharaa described their continuation as "legally and morally unjustified," explaining that the sanctions were imposed on the former regime for its crimes, which no longer exists. He added, "These sanctions are no longer directed at a defunct regime but are affecting the Syrian people. We believe President Macron understands the consequences of continuing this policy."

Al-Sharaa also touched on reconstruction efforts, highlighting that "the matter is not just about funding or infrastructure, but also about rebuilding trust within the exhausted Syrian society." He concluded by saying, "We discussed France's contribution to the reconstruction efforts."