Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa is visiting France, marking his first trip to Europe. He aims to demonstrate inclusivity in the new government while seeking an end to sanctions and foreign investment. The meeting with Macron will focus on stabilizing the region and combating terrorism, even as concerns about extremism and controversial appointments linger.
Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa is heading to Europe this week, marking his inaugural visit to the continent with a trip to France. This unexpected announcement came on Tuesday, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal moment for Syria. Al-Sharaa took on the role of Syria’s transition government leader in January and subsequently formed a new cabinet with about two dozen ministers in March.
Al-Sharaa previously led Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, a rebel group known for its historic connections to al-Qaeda. This background has raised concerns regarding potential extremism and the treatment of minorities under his leadership. Despite the skepticism, al-Sharaa aims to project an image of an inclusive Syria.
His upcoming meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron holds significant weight, as this will be al-Sharaa’s first official audience in a Western nation. Several European nations have begun to accept Syria’s newly formed government, which is seeking to diminish international sanctions and attract investment. It is essential to note that this advancement will likely require time and patience.
The choice of France for al-Sharaa’s first trip appears deliberate; the country’s historical ties with Syria as a former colonial power play a role. Given France’s previous mandate in Lebanon and its stakes in the region, it seems to offer a more favorable atmosphere for Syrian diplomacy compared to the United States and the United Kingdom, who have been colder in their approach toward Damascus.
Macron is anticipated to underscore France’s support for what he describes as a reformed Syria, one that would empower all facets of its society. The French presidency conveyed that during their discussions, Macron would emphasize requirements for stabilizing the region, notably Lebanon, alongside a concerted fight against terrorism.
The invitation for al-Sharaa, dating back to February, reflects a strategic diplomatic maneuver, though the details of this visit were largely kept under wraps until recently. With ongoing strife within Syria, including clashes with the Druze community and consistent Israeli airstrikes, al-Sharaa faces a daunting task ahead. He is also attempting negotiations with the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, emphasizing the delicate balancing act he must maintain across regional interests.
Notably, France is sometimes at odds with Turkey, aligning itself more closely with Armenia and voicing concerns about Ankara’s regional actions. France’s longstanding support for Kurdish rights further complicates the dynamics at play as al-Sharaa seeks regional legitimacy.
As al-Sharaa’s trip to France approaches, it is evident that this event will be scrutinized closely. A recent viral video showing him engaging in basketball has sparked interest, humanizing his image. Syria is under immense pressure to upgrade its infrastructure, and the country clearly needs investment and international backing to do so.
Nevertheless, the pervading presence of extremist factions and armed groups still undermines al-Sharaa’s government. Controversial military appointments, such as that of militia commander Hatem Abu Shakra, who faces allegations related to the death of Kurdish political activist Hevrin Khalaf, cast a shadow on the administration’s efforts. Without decisive action to manage these issues, al-Sharaa’s aspirations to be seen as a unifying leader may falter.
In summary, President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to France highlights a significant step in Syria’s political landscape following his appointment as the leader of the transition government. As he attempts to navigate a complex web of regional relationships and internal challenges, the reception he receives in France and his negotiations with Macron could define Syria’s future relationships with the West. However, ongoing issues with extremist factions and contentious military appointments remain critical obstacles for his leadership. Time will tell if this visit will mark the beginning of meaningful change for Syria.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
