© Shamil Zhumatov / POOL/AFP
Russia’s prime diplomat, Sergey Lavrov, met along with his Syrian counterpart in Moscow on Thursday, marking the primary official go to by a member of Syria’s new authorities because the ousting of former president Bashar al-Assad in a insurgent offensive final 12 months. This assembly underscores Russia’s continued backing of the Syrian authorities regardless of the numerous political adjustments in Syria.
It was the primary time a high-ranking Syrian official visited Russia, previously Assad’s greatest backer, since he was overthrown.
“Of course, we’re inquisitive about having Russia by our aspect,” Shaibani advised his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov, however mentioned there have been elements complicating relations.
Russia’s naval base in Tartus and its air base at Hmeimim – each on Syria’s Mediterranean coast – are Moscow’s solely official navy outposts outdoors the previous Soviet Union.
Moscow had used the bases extensively throughout its intervention within the civil battle on Assad’s aspect in 2015, with heavy air bombardments of rebel-held areas.
It was unclear whether or not the brand new Islamist authorities will enable Moscow to maintain its outposts within the nation.
Lavrov mentioned Moscow was prepared to assist Syria rebuild after greater than a decade of devastating battle and to evaluate “agreements and contracts concluded below totally different circumstances”.
This was echoed by his Syrian counterpart, who mentioned a evaluate of the agreements was wanted to grasp whether or not they had been “serving the wants of the Syrian individuals”.
Neither of the ministers talked about whether or not the navy bases lease, which lasts until 2066, was below dialogue.
Syria wants “buddies and companions” on its transition path, al-Shaibani advised a press convention after the talks.
Lavrov mentioned Russia’s historic help for Syria “does not rely on the political state of affairs or adjustments of presidency”.
