Damascus, Syria – In a move with broad political and economic implications, French President Emmanuel Macron met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus on Tuesday. They announced the beginning of a new phase of strategic cooperation between the two countries. Macron affirmed France’s full readiness to build bridges of trust with Syria and to actively contribute to reconstruction efforts. He also revealed the formation of expanded joint economic committees to oversee this process.
Strategic partnership and financial facilities
The French president announced that Paris would be a strategic partner of Damascus in vital sectors, most notably energy and banking. In a practical gesture reflecting the seriousness of this commitment, the Élysée Palace revealed that procedures had already begun to return €51 million to Damascus. These funds represent assets that had been confiscated from the Assad family. In addition, specialized technical assistance will be provided to the Central Bank of Syria to bolster its stability.
On the logistical front, the French shipping group CMA CGM has established a strong presence. It has signed a partnership agreement that includes air cargo handling at Damascus International Airport. In addition, it had previously secured contracts to operate two dry ports. This will further enhance the role of French companies in shaping Syria’s new infrastructure.
Al-Sharaa: The new Syria opens its doors to investment
For his part, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa extended a direct invitation to French companies to invest in the “new Syria,” emphasizing that the country now offers a modern and institutionalized investment environment. Al-Sharaa explained that Syria, thanks to its strategic geographic location linking the Mediterranean to the Gulf and Iraq, is gaining increasing importance as a “safe passage.” This is particularly evident in light of current regional tensions, especially the Strait of Hormuz crisis.
Al-Sharaa revealed that the CMA CGM Group had already invested a substantial €230 million in the port of Latakia, with plans for an additional €200 million. The Syrian president also outlined an ambitious reconstruction roadmap encompassing airport modernization, offshore energy exploration, and the development of digital infrastructure and the food processing industry. He described the partnership with France as a model for future relations with Europe, based on shared interests, which will serve the aspirations of both nations and solidify Syria’s role as a pivotal regional link in the post-war era.
