Damascus: Syria and France signed a series of cooperation agreements and memorandums of understanding on Tuesday covering investment, infrastructure, transport, healthcare, banking, and institutional development, during French President Emmanuel Macron's official visit to Damascus. The signing ceremony, held in the presence of President Ahmad al-Sharaa and President Macron, marked a significant step in expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani and French Foreign Minister Jean-No«l Barrot signed a Framework Declaration for Comprehensive Cooperation, establishing a framework to strengthen bilateral relations. A Strategic Partnership Declaration focusing on maritime and air transport and logistics was signed by Qutaiba Badawi, Head of the General Authority for Borders and Customs, and Rodolphe Saad©, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group.
The two sides also signed an agreement with the French Development Agency (AFD) and Expertise France to support future development cooperation. Additional agreements included a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the healthcare sector and a cooperation protocol on modular water treatment and energy solutions in Homs.
Furthermore, a memorandum of understanding on institutional strengthening, technical assistance, and capacity building for the Central Bank of Syria was signed. Another memorandum of understanding aimed to expand economic cooperation and strengthen trade relations. There was also a declaration of intent on civil aviation cooperation and a cooperation protocol on air cargo handling management and the marketing of air freight services.
The agreements were signed following high-level talks between President al-Sharaa and President Macron and are aimed at strengthening economic cooperation, supporting reconstruction efforts, and expanding long-term partnerships between Syria and France.