Speaking at a joint news conference with al-Sharaa, Macron said France intended to continue working with Syria on restructuring its banking sector and was prepared to assist the country’s central bank as part of broader reconstruction efforts.

Macron’s visit continued after two explosions occurred near a hotel where he had been holding meetings. No further details about the blasts or their impact were immediately provided.

The visit marks another step in France’s engagement with Syria as Damascus seeks international support to rebuild its economy after years of conflict and isolation.

At an economic forum attended by officials and business representatives from both countries, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa said he wanted France to become Syria’s principal economic partner in the country’s reconstruction and development efforts.

Al-Sharaa said recent disruptions to global trade following the Strait of Hormuz crisis had underscored Syria’s strategic geographic position as a transit corridor linking regional and international markets. He said the country had regained its importance as a stable route for trade and logistics and invited France to play a leading role in developing that potential.

Macron reiterated France’s willingness to cooperate on financial sector reforms, emphasizing support for rebuilding institutions that would help revive Syria’s economy.

The discussions focused on economic cooperation, financial reconstruction and expanding bilateral engagement as Syria seeks foreign investment and technical assistance to restore key sectors of its economy.

The meetings brought together government officials and representatives from both countries to explore opportunities for deeper economic cooperation, with banking reform and infrastructure among the priorities highlighted during the visit.