Explosions Heard In Damascus During Macron's Visit

DAMASCUS, July 7 (dpa) -- Two blasts were heard in Damascus on Tuesday, during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to the country.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that an initial blast was followed within seconds by a more powerful explosion, both near the hotel where Macron is reportedly staying.

The explosions caused alarm among residents in the city.

Emergency services and ambulances reportedly rushed to the scene immediately. Security forces also cordoned off the surrounding area. 

No official information was immediately available on the cause of the blasts, potential damage, or any casualties.

Macron arrived in Syria on Monday evening, becoming the first EU leader to visit the country since 2010.

Amid reports of explosions, the official news agency SANA reported that Macron is currently meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the presidential palace.

The Élysée Palace in Paris confirmed that Macron was unharmed. The French president remained at the presidential palace, where detailed talks between delegations from both countries were under way, it said in a statement.

--NNN-dpa