Macron had entered the presidential palace to meet Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa when the explosions happened near the Four Seasons Hotel.
Explosions rocked Damascus on Tuesday as France’s president met with his Syrian counterpart in a landmark visit.
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Emmanuel Macron had entered the presidential palace to meet Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa when the explosions happened near the Four Seasons Hotel. Syrian authorities did not immediately comment on the incident.
Syrian media reported that Macron was staying at the Four Seasons.
Two explosions were heard in the heart of the capital, Syrian newspaper Al-Watan and Syria TV network reported. A large plume of smoke could be seen from the site.
Footage widely circulated on social media showed a vehicle on fire and blood stains on the street.
The number of casualties was not immediately clear. No group immediately claimed responsibility.
Paris said Macron is unharmed and continuing his visit as scheduled.
Macron arrived in Syria on Monday for the first visit by a Western European head of state since Syria's new authorities took power.
Syria’s state-run SANA news agency said Macron was visiting with a business delegation to discuss regional security as well as business and investment opportunities.
The French president was greeted at Damascus airport by Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani.
“I have come to express France’s commitment to the Syrian people. For a sovereign Syria, united in its diversity and at peace with its neighbours,” Macron said in a post on X.
“Together, let us open a new chapter of stability and peace.”
This is a developing story and our journalists are working on further updates.