Story perspectives

Macron Visits Damascus, Pushes Reconstruction Amid Parliament Delay

7/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Damascus with a delegation that included TotalEnergies and CMA CGM CEOs.
After being received by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, he said France will discuss reconstruction with Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Macron’s adviser warned Syria must investigate Assad-era crimes and refrain from meddling in Lebanon.
Syrian officials postponed the new parliament’s opening, linking the delay to the French visit amid reconstruction costs of hundreds of billions and poverty.

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Story summary

President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Damascus with a delegation that included TotalEnergies and CMA CGM CEOs.
After being received by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, he said France will discuss reconstruction with Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Macron’s adviser warned Syria must investigate Assad-era crimes and refrain from meddling in Lebanon.
Syrian officials postponed the new parliament’s opening, linking the delay to the French visit amid reconstruction costs of hundreds of billions and poverty.