The office of President Emmanuel Macron announced that French shipping 'group CMA CGM' signed a partnership agreement with Syria on Tuesday. Macron was in Damascus for a meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa which had been disrupted due to bomb explosions.

Macron's office confirmed that the?CMA CGM contract would also include handling of a?air cargo freight at Damascus International Airport. Syria had announced earlier in May that CMA CGM would operate two dry port facilities.

CMA CGM was one of several French companies announced by Macron's Office. The office also stated that France and Syria have'started' a process for giving back to Syria EUR51 millions ($58.29 million) confiscated from the late Rifaat Al-Assad, uncle to 'former Syrian president 'Bashar al Assad.

(source: Reuters)