ALBAWABA - This was the first direct communication between Syrian President Ahmad Shar'a and Russian President Vladimir Putin since Shar'a assumed power after Bashar al-Assad was overthrown. The conversation demonstrated Russia's commitment to stability in the war-torn nation and its continued engagement with Syria's new government.
Russia reiterated its steadfast support for Syria's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity during the conversation, which centered on the present state of affairs in the country, according to the Kremlin. Putin promoted an open political discussion that includes major political groupings as well as varied ethnic and religious communities, emphasizing the necessity for efforts to establish long-term stability.
Putin also pledged humanitarian assistance and support for infrastructure development, demonstrating Russia's willingness to help Syria improve its social and economic circumstances. He wished Shar'a well in overcoming the obstacles that lay ahead. The Kremlin said the discussion was "constructive and pragmatic," and both presidents decided to keep in touch on a regular basis.
The phone contact comes after a Russian group headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov recently made a high-level trip to Damascus. Discussions about Russia-Syria ties, cross-sector collaboration, and the future of Russia's military presence at the Hmeimim and Tartus bases were held by the delegation, which included representatives from the foreign and defense ministries.
Syria has shown signs of cooperation with Russia in recent days. According to Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasara, if it serves Syria's interests, Damascus may agree to negotiate a prolonged Russian military deployment. As part of Moscow's larger commitment to backing the new administration, Russian officials have spoken of possible economic assistance for Syria, including debt reduction.
Putin reaffirmed Russia's readiness to assist Syria while emphasizing that the Syrian people must decide their own destiny via an open discussion. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesman for the Kremlin, said that Moscow will continue on talks with Damascus, including talks on accords pertaining to Russia's military presence in the nation.
