Ahmad Al Shara’s Inaugural Visit to France: Seeking Support Amidst Strife

Ahmad Al Shara, Syria’s leader, is visiting Paris for talks with President Macron—the first trip to a western country since his rise to power. With ongoing sectarian violence in Syria, Macron intends to discuss support for an inclusive government and regional stability. Amid sanctions and economic recovery obstacles, this meeting symbolizes a potential shift in Syria’s international relations and its rebuilding efforts.

Ahmad Al Shara, the new leader of Syria, is set to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday. This marks Al Shara’s first trip to a western country amidst ongoing sectarian violence in Syria. An adviser to President Macron emphasized that hosting Al Shara reflects France’s commitment to supporting the Syrian populace in their quest for stability and unity.

Al Shara, previously a rebel leader, currently faces UN sanctions, which necessitated France applying for a special exemption for his visit. According to the French presidency, Macron intends to reiterate France’s support for establishing a “free, stable, and sovereign Syria” which acknowledges the diverse elements within Syrian society.

The meeting is a continuation of Macron’s efforts to engage with Syria’s emerging leadership following the downfall of former President Bashar Al Assad, and after Syria’s political landscape shifted. Macron’s office stated that the president will stress the need for the Syrian government to stabilize the region and combat terrorism, emphasizing historical support for democratic movements within Syria.

The French leader initially extended an invitation to Al Shara back in February, which he reiterated with the stipulation that a new inclusive Syrian government represents all societal groups. There are positive indications from these early negotiations, which have led to hopes for democratization and peace.

Al Shara’s government has committed to the protection of all religious communities in Syria, yet significant sectarian violence lingers, exacerbating security concerns within the nation. Recent clashes have raised questions about the government’s capacity to manage militant factions within its ranks, leading to alarm among various community groups.

Recent agreements, like a significant deal with French logistics giant CMA CGM, showcase attempts to mend Syria’s economy. This contract includes infrastructural investments in the country, yet obstacles remain, primarily due to existing international sanctions that hinder recovery efforts. Analysts contend that it may require upwards of $250 billion to rebuild Syria.

In tandem with this visit, Al Shara is expected to engage in dedicated discussions with various cooperation and development organizations. His trip denotes a strategic pursuit to navigate Syria back onto the global stage, seeking financial support for the state’s recovery.

While Al Shara’s administration has aired intentions of fostering inter-religious dialogue, sectarian strife has claimed numerous lives recently. With rising violence affecting the Druze community in Syria, Israel has reportedly ramped up military operations aimed at protecting minorities.

On the broader international front, Syria saw a meeting between Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani and US State Department representatives last week, indicating a thaw in relations after years of hostility. This unprecedented engagement may signal a recalibration of diplomatic ties, covering issues like reparations for Syria’s substantial external debts.

The evolving dynamics underscore a critical juncture for Syria, as the new leadership maneuvers to secure both domestic stability and global partnership for its future.

Ahmad Al Shara’s impending visit to France for talks with President Macron highlights a significant step for Syria’s integration back into the international community after years of civil strife. The discussions will likely focus on the urgent need for stabilization, the economic recovery hindered by sanctions, and the imperative for an inclusive governance structure in Syria. Though Al Shara aims to project a commitment to protecting minority rights and fostering inter-community harmony, the reality of ongoing sectarian violence poses a grim backdrop. The international reception of this meeting could influence Syria’s rehabilitative efforts positively amid cautious optimism for a new era of leadership and cooperation.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com