Syrian Leader Ahmad Al Shara to Meet Macron in Paris Amid Sectarian Strife

Ahmad Al Shara, Syrian leader, will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday, marking his first trip to the West as he addresses sectarian violence and foreign demands for an inclusive government. Al Shara is under UN sanctions, requiring France to seek an exemption for his visit. The talks will focus on Syria’s stabilization and reconstruction amidst ongoing international sanctions.

In a significant diplomatic move, Ahmad Al Shara, the Syrian leader, is set to meet French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Wednesday as part of his first trip to a western nation. This engagement comes at a time when Al Shara grapples with escalating sectarian violence in Syria and navigates the demands for a more inclusive governance structure in the country. According to a spokesperson for Mr. Macron, Al Shara’s visit highlights France’s ongoing support for the Syrian populace amidst these challenges.

Al Shara, who was a rebel leader during the Syrian civil war, is currently under United Nations sanctions. Hence, France had to request a special exemption to facilitate his visit. “He can go to Paris under the temporary exemption that was requested,” a Macron adviser stated. President Macron intends to reinforce his commitment to the establishment of a “free, stable and sovereign Syria” that respects all societal groups.

A main focus of the meeting will be the stabilization of the region, particularly in Lebanon, and the fight against terrorism, which remain critical issues for France and its allies. The two leaders are also scheduled to hold a joint press conference following their discussions on Tuesday evening. In February, Mr. Macron extended an invitation to Al Shara, emphasizing the need for an inclusive Syrian government before furthering relations.

France was among the first European states to engage with new Syrian leadership after the overthrow of President Bashar Al Assad last December. Following this diplomatic thaw, Paris has been making moves to reopen its embassy in Syria, which was closed in 2012 due to strained relations. Reports indicate that Jean-Baptiste Faivre, an Arabic-speaking diplomat, is in line to be appointed as France’s new charge d’affaires in Syria.

Additionally, last week Syria entered into a substantial 30-year partnership with French shipping company CMA CGM, focused on developing infrastructure like a new berth at Latakia port and investing around €230 million. This agreement was signed in the presence of Al Shara, reflecting a potential pivot towards international economic partnerships even amidst ongoing challenges posed by western sanctions.

The humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire, with estimates suggesting rebuilding the war-torn nation could cost approximately $250 billion. While US sanctions pose a significant barrier, some European Union sanctions have been lifted. This critical subject is scheduled for discussion during Al Shara’s Paris visit, highlighting the complexity of international relations involving Syria.

In the backdrop of these diplomatic efforts, Syria has experienced a surge of sectarian violence leading to severe casualties. The Syrian government’s ability to manage extremist factions within its ranks is under scrutiny, especially following a recent upsurge in attacks on the Druze minority. On the regional front, Israel has conducted numerous air strikes across Syria, with the intent of protecting its Druze community, which has been affected by the escalating violence.

In conclusion, Al Shara’s upcoming visit to France not only marks a pivotal step towards normalizing Syria’s relations with the West but also poses questions about the ongoing sectarian strife within the country. This meeting represents an attempt to solidify support for a new Syrian government while facing the difficult reality of reconstruction amidst international sanctions and pressures.

Al Shara’s trip to France signifies a renewed effort by the Syrian leadership to engage with the international community for support in rebuilding the nation. However, the backdrop of sectarian violence and regional instability complicates these diplomatic overtures. With ongoing sanctions hindering recovery efforts, the outcome of this meeting could be pivotal for Syria’s future on the world stage.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com