France's President Emmanuel Macron (L) shakes hands with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa ahead of their meeting at the People's Palace in Damascus on July 7, 2026. French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Damascus on July 6, 2026 for the first visit by a Western European head of state since Syria's new authorities took power in 2024, an AFP journalist said. Macron, who will depart on July 7, 2026, will advocate for "a free, pluralist Syria that respects each of its components" and plays a role in moderating Middle East tensions, the French presidency told journalists ahead of his arrival. (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / POOL / AFP)
