Al-Shara' feted Macron in old Damascus yesterday.

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Agencies - Damascus: Geographical References

Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara' announced on Tuesday his agreement with French President Emmanuel Macron to begin exchanging ambassadors as soon as possible, after the French embassy closed its doors in 2012.

Al-Shara' said during a joint press conference with Macron: "I am pleased to announce today our agreement to begin the process of exchanging resident ambassadors between Damascus and Paris as soon as possible, heralding the return of diplomatic relations to full normalcy." He added that Damascus and Paris signed a declaration of intent to recover Syrian assets from France.

For his part, Macron announced that Paris and Damascus decided to exchange ambassadors, affirmed France's commitment to the coalition against ISIS, and stated that France is ready to provide assistance in rebuilding the Syrian banking sector.

Syrian state media reported that two explosive devices detonated near a hotel in Damascus where Macron is staying, while the Elysee Palace said the French president did not hear the blasts. The SANA news agency quoted the Interior Ministry as saying the two explosions occurred near the Tourism Ministry in Damascus, injuring 18 people, including four police officers.