French President Emmanuel Macron has visited Syria, becoming the first major Western leader to travel there since the removal of Bashar al-Assad in 2024. Macron met Syria's new leadership and discussed reconstruction, economic cooperation, minority rights and regional security. The visit represents a significant step toward restoring Syria's relations with Western governments after years of isolation and war. Supporters of engagement believe international investment could help stabilise the country, while critics warn that sanctions and diplomatic recognition should only be removed if the new government protects human rights and creates inclusive political institutions.
