In a significant diplomatic development, Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani emphasized his country’s desire to maintain close relations with Russia during an official visit to Moscow, the first by a representative of Syria’s newly installed government since the previous Russian-supported administration was ousted last year.
Al-Shaibani, speaking during a meeting on Thursday, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, expressed Syria’s commitment to rebuilding a united and resilient nation in partnership with Moscow.
“This phase presents not only numerous challenges and threats but also a crucial opportunity to construct a strong and cohesive Syria.
We undoubtedly want Russia to stand with us throughout this journey,” he stated, according to a Russian translation of his remarks.
While underscoring the importance of mutual respect in bilateral relations, al-Shaibani also acknowledged the complexities involved in shaping future cooperation.
“There are certain realities on the ground that complicate these relations,” he noted.
His statement suggested that the evolving political landscape in Syria requires a balanced and respectful diplomatic approach.
This visit comes in the wake of the collapse of the regime led by former President Bashar al-Assad, a long-time ally of Russia.
Assad was deposed in a swift offensive by rebel forces that ended decades of autocratic rule by the Assad family.
Following his ousting, Assad fled to Moscow, where he later alleged on social media that he had wanted to continue the fight from Syria but was instead evacuated by Russian forces.
Despite having supported opposing factions during Syria’s prolonged civil war, the new Syrian leadership, under interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has adopted a pragmatic stance toward Russia.
While Moscow had provided crucial military support to the Assad regime, the new government has shown a willingness to work with Russia to stabilize the country.
The military support includes airstrikes against opposition forces and logistical aid.
Evidence of this developing relationship surfaced earlier this year when a Russian delegation visited Damascus.
It was followed by a February phone call between President Vladimir Putin and al-Sharaa.
The Kremlin described the exchange as “constructive and business-like,” indicating an openness to redefining bilateral ties.
Some Russian military forces remain stationed at strategic locations along Syria’s Mediterranean coast, particularly at the Tartous naval base and the Khmeimim airbase.
The airbase is reportedly Russia’s only military installations outside the former Soviet bloc.
Additionally, Russia has continued supplying oil to Syria, which is struggling with energy shortages and infrastructure damage.
During his visit, al-Shaibani expressed appreciation for Russia’s stance on regional issues, particularly its condemnation of recent Israeli strikes.
These attacks came amid intense clashes involving Syrian government troops, Bedouin militias, and armed members of the Druze minority.
The violence resulted in over 250 fatalities and further destabilized the region.
Al-Shaibani thanked Moscow for its firm position against what he described as repeated violations of Syrian sovereignty.
After the bilateral talks, Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s dedication to Syria’s territorial integrity and political independence.
He praised the efforts of the Syrian authorities in safeguarding Russian personnel and installations within the country.
“We are committed to supporting Syria’s post-conflict reconstruction and will continue to assist in every possible way,” Lavrov told reporters.
In a notable shift, al-Shaibani also called on Russia to assist with Syria’s “transitional justice” process as the nation moves beyond the Assad era.
He revealed that a government committee had been established to reassess existing bilateral agreements with Moscow.
His comment hints at a potential reevaluation of Russia’s long-term military presence.
Lavrov reiterated Russia’s invitation to interim President al-Sharaa to attend the inaugural Russia-Arab League summit, scheduled for October 15.
The invitation underscores Moscow’s ongoing interest in shaping Syria’s political future, even as the dynamics of their alliance continue to evolve.
The trajectory of Russian-Syrian relations remains fluid as Damascus navigates the challenges of governance, reconstruction, and reconciliation.
Nevertheless, both sides appear committed to maintaining a working partnership grounded in shared strategic interests and diplomatic cooperation.
