Macron Endorses Kurdish-Syrian-State Agreement as “Turning Point” in Syria’s History
By Kardo Roj
PARIS, France (North Press) –
French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday praised the landmark March 10 agreement between Syria’s transitional government and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), calling it “an important stage in Syria’s history” and pledging full French support for its implementation.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa following high-level talks at the Élysée Palace in Paris, Macron lauded both President Sharaa and SDF Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi for their roles in finalizing the accord.
“I salute General Mazloum Abdi and President Ahmed al-Sharaa for concluding the March 10 agreement. It is a critical step toward unity and stability in Syria,” Macron told reporters, underlining France’s commitment to facilitating the agreement’s next phase.
A New Chapter in Post-War Syria
The agreement, announced by the Syrian presidency in March, outlines the formal integration of SDF structures into the framework of Syria’s national institutions, while preserving their role in regional security and counterterrorism.
Details of the accord have not been fully disclosed, but according to officials familiar with the process, the deal emphasizes a shared security strategy, continued operations against ISIS, and steps toward political decentralization—principles long advocated by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
Macron expressed hope that both parties would “apply and execute the agreement’s provisions in the next stage,” emphasizing that its success would represent a model of reconciliation and cooperation in a country scarred by 14 years of conflict.
France Reaffirms Commitment to Anti-ISIS Campaign
In the same press briefing, Macron reiterated France’s determination to continue the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS), and proposed a joint operational framework that includes cooperation between the Syrian government and the SDF.
“The presence of ISIS in Syria remains a threat to international peace and security,” Macron said, noting that any lasting peace in Syria will require inclusive counterterrorism strategies and strong coordination with effective forces on the ground.
The SDF has been at the forefront of the international coalition’s campaign against ISIS since 2015, operating across northeast Syria and securing areas liberated from extremist control. Despite challenges, including ongoing Turkish military threats and limited recognition from Damascus, the force remains one of the most capable and disciplined military bodies in Syria.
A Signal to Europe and Washington
France’s strong endorsement of the March 10 agreement may also signal a broader European reassessment of engagement in Syria. Macron indicated that Paris would advocate for a gradual lifting of EU sanctions tied to political progress, and would urge the United States to adopt a more flexible posture toward the evolving political dynamics.
“Syria will not return to stability without economic recovery,” Macron said, calling for the international community to support reconstruction efforts under a new political consensus.
This stance reflects a growing recognition in European circles of the need to stabilize northeast Syria, empower local governance, and prevent a resurgence of extremist threats.
Sharaa Emphasizes Unity and Reconstruction
President Sharaa, who rose to power following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, echoed Macron’s sentiment, stating that Syria is entering “a new phase of rebuilding and unity.”
“We are working together to emerge from the legacy of war and past governance,” Sharaa said. He also reiterated his commitment to fighting terrorism and dismantling Syria’s remaining chemical weapons stockpiles.
On regional affairs, Sharaa condemned recent Israeli airstrikes in Syria, but confirmed ongoing indirect dialogue with Israel, facilitated by the United Arab Emirates, aimed at easing tensions along the southern frontier.
The March 10 agreement has the potential to redefine Syria’s political landscape by institutionalizing cooperation between the central government and the autonomous administration in the northeast. While significant hurdles remain—including political distrust, security complexities, and foreign interference—Macron’s endorsement injects momentum into a process that could reshape post-war Syria.
As international support begins to coalesce around local initiatives for stability and counterterrorism, the SDF’s evolving role as both a military and political actor may continue to gain prominence in shaping Syria’s future.