The Damascus neighborhood of the man who has been leading Syria's new caretaker government celebrates his new role and reflects on the last 14 years of civil war.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, center, meets with representatives of civil society during an official visit, in Damascus, Syria, on Jan 3, 2025. (Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy) ...

Barrot expressed his hope "for a sovereign, stable and peaceful Syria" after arriving in Damascus, where he also visited the French embassy, which has been closed since 2012.

Mr. Barrot expressed his hope “for a sovereign, stable and peaceful Syria” after arriving in Damascus, where he also visited the French embassy, which has been closed since 2012.