France’s FM emphasizes Kurds’ significant role in new Syria
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – French Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot said on Friday that the Kurdish people must play a significant role in building a new Syria.
Speaking to North Press during his visit to Damascus, Barrot emphasized France’s commitment to supporting its “Kurdish allies” in northeastern Syria in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS).
“The resurgence of terrorism and ISIS poses a threat not only to France but to all European countries,” Barrot warned, underscoring the global stakes of the ongoing battle against extremism.
The French Foreign Minister also expressed strong support for a permanent ceasefire in Syria, describing it as a crucial step toward stability and reconstruction.
Barrot, alongside German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, arrived in Damascus early Friday morning for a historic meeting with Ahmad al-Sharaa, defacto leader of the new administration of Syria. This marks their first visit to Syria following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
The visit is widely seen as a pivotal moment in international efforts to rebuild Syria and address the political and security challenges that have plagued the country for over a decade.
The primary agenda of the visit included affirming support for the newly formed Syrian interim administration and discussing the role of key stakeholders, such as the Kurdish communities, in shaping Syria’s future.
Both ministers aim to advance peace and security in Syria, with an emphasis on countering the resurgence of terrorism. France, in particular, has maintained a strong partnership with Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the fight against ISIS, recognizing their critical role in regional stability.