'France stands by Syria's side': Macron 'most enthusiastic in Europe' to repair ties

AI Summary

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Damascus, expressing France's support for Syria and its reconstruction efforts. Despite hopes for boosted investment, security challenges remain, highlighted by a twin explosion near Macron's hotel during the official visit.

French President Emmanuel Macron has told Syria that 'France stands by its side' at a press conference in Damascus during his landmark visit to Ahmed al-Sharaa. Both leaders are hoping to bring more investment into the war-torn country as it looks to rebuild, although security challenges still remain - and were highlighted by a twin explosion near Macron's hotel. FRANCE 24's Angela Diffley tells us more about why Macron is so keen on normalising Europe's relationship with Syria.