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@LCISyrian President received at the Élysée Palace: a controversial visit ➡️ https://t.co/SslLPRagmN https://t.co/QOJegnxtaD
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Syrian Interim President's First Europe Trip: Meets Macron to Discuss EU Sanctions, Sectarian Violence, and Israeli Airstrikes
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Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, leading the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) interim government, met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris during his first trip to Europe. The meeting at the Elysee Palace focused on the future of Syria after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad by rebels late last year.
Macron reiterated France's support for a peaceful transition in Syria, emphasizing the need to protect all Syrians irrespective of their origin, religion, or beliefs. He urged al-Sharaa to ensure the prosecution of those involved in recent sectarian violence against the Druze and Alawite communities, which saw significant casualties in March.
In a joint press conference, Macron announced plans to advocate for the gradual lifting of EU sanctions on Syria, conditional on the new government's commitment to justice and democratic reforms. He also intends to press the United States to delay its troop withdrawal from Syria and reconsider its sanctions, highlighting the need for stability in the region.
Al-Sharaa argued that the sanctions, initially imposed on Assad's regime, are now hindering Syria's reconstruction, estimated to cost $250 billion, and should be lifted as they unfairly impact the Syrian people. He also mentioned ongoing indirect talks with Israel to de-escalate tensions amid continued Israeli airstrikes.
The visit, which included a tour of the Eiffel Tower, has been controversial in France due to al-Sharaa's past ties to al-Qaeda. However, Macron defended the diplomatic engagement, stressing its importance for peace. Al-Sharaa was granted an exemption from a UN travel ban to make this visit.
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