Syrian President Sharaa arrives in Paris, his first visit to Europe since taking office

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa arrived in Paris on Wednesday for his first official visit to a European country since taking office, state news agency SANA reported.

The visit came at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron.

Sharaa is set to hold talks with Macron focused on Syria's reconstruction and repeated Israeli strikes on Syrian territory, the news agency said, quoting a source from the Information Ministry.

The discussions are expected to prioritize economic development and reconstruction, with a particular focus on the energy and aviation sectors, SANA reported, adding that the agenda also includes regional diplomacy, particularly ties with neighboring Lebanon.

The source emphasized the significance of Sharaa's trip, describing it as a landmark moment in Syria's foreign relations. It is his first European visit since the fall of the former regime led by Bashar al-Assad in December.

The Elysee Palace confirmed Tuesday that Sharaa would arrive in Paris on Wednesday. Macron is expected to receive him and express support for building “a new, free, and stable Syria that respects all components of its people.”