France Pushes for Strategic Coalition as Syria Transitions to Stability

France's president urged Syria's transitional authorities to partner with the international coalition against Islamic State, aiming to stabilize the country during its transition. An international conference in Paris discussed regional and Western support for Syria’s fragile shift, transitional justice, and the potential lifting of sanctions.

France's president has called on Syria's new authorities to join forces with the Iraq-based coalition against Islamic State to help stabilize the nation during its transition. The appeal came during an international conference in Paris attended by Syria's foreign minister and representatives from regional and Western powers.

Leading a Syrian delegation to the EU, Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, along with Syria's transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa, was invited to France by President Emmanuel Macron. At the Paris conference, Macron emphasized the importance of fighting terrorist groups and positioning Syria against becoming a base for Iranian militias.

The gathering aimed at coordinating support for Syria's sovereignty and economic recovery, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urging for a focus on transitional justice. While no funds were raised, discussions included lifting sanctions imposed on Syria during Bashar al-Assad's rule, amidst disputes over maritime boundaries.

(With inputs from agencies.)