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May7, 2025

Anna Murray 

Syria's President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is making his first trip to Europe this week, visiting France. He will be hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on May 7.

Sharaa was previously the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a rebel group known for its long history of affiliation with al-Qaeda. In January, he was appointed as the leader of Syria's transitional administration and established a new Syrian government in March, comprising approximately twenty ministries. The international community remains cautious about Sharaa's leadership.

Accompanied by other high-ranking officials, Sharaa's visit aims to demonstrate their commitment to upholding human rights. France is perceived to have a more balanced strategy toward the Middle East, which may work in Syria's favor. Meanwhile, Damascus is seeking the complete lifting of sanctions imposed by the Assad regime.