French President Confirms Continuation of Damascus Visit Despite Bombings, Emphasizing Syrian Sovereignty

French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed the continuation of his official visit to the Syrian capital, Damascus, despite two bombings that targeted the vicinity of his residence, stressing that such incidents will not undermine the resolve and aspirations of the Syrian people. In a statement following the explosions, which occurred near the Four Seasons Hotel shortly after his departure, Macron said: "Nothing can stifle the ambition of Syrian women and men to live in a fully sovereign, safe, pluralistic, and united Syria." He noted that he witnessed "dignity, courage, and determination" from the Syrian people during his meetings. The French President proceeded to the Presidential Palace to hold extensive talks with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, focusing on the reconstruction file. For his part, Fadel Abdul Ghany, Director of the Syrian Network for Human Rights, explained that the first explosion happened shortly after the French President's departure, prompting immediate precautionary measures to secure those inside the hotel. This visit marks an unprecedented diplomatic move, being the first by a Western head of state to Damascus since the new leadership assumed power.