Syrian and Russian officials discuss restoration of relations

Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Representative of the President of Russia for the Middle East, met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, Head of Syria’s new administration. The officials met to discuss the restoration of relations between Damascus and Moscow, the new Syrian authorities said in a statement.

“The Russian side has confirmed its support for the positive changes currently taking place in Syria. The negotiations included discussions on Russia’s role in restoring relations with the Syrian people through certain measures such as compensations and support for restoration,” reads the statement.

As noted, the head of Syria’s new administration “reaffirmed the commitment to principled cooperation with all interested parties to build Syria’s future based on justice, dignity, and sovereignty.”

Syria’s new administration noted that the restoration of relations must take into account past mistakes, respect the will of the Syrian people, and serve their interests.

On Jan. 28, a Russian interagency delegation visited Damascus and held negotiations with the head of Syria’s new administration. Summarizing the results of the talks, Bogdanov stated that the meeting lasted about three hours and was constructive.

He also highlighted that Russia continues to support Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Russian delegation emphasized the necessity of addressing problematic issues facing the country through inclusive dialogue, involving all political forces and ethnoconfessional groups.

Bogdanov noted that the parties also discussed the maintenance of Russian military bases in Syria.

According to him, the sides agreed to continue consultations; currently there are no changes regarding the Russian presence in Syria.