Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, arrived in Russia on Wednesday for his first official visit, underscoring Moscow’s efforts to establish ties with Syria’s new leadership and maintain its military presence in the country.
Al-Sharaa, who led a rapid rebel offensive last year that ousted former President Bashar Assad despite years of Russian backing, is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. According to the Kremlin, the talks will focus on “current conditions and prospects for developing Russian-Syrian relations in trade, economic, and humanitarian spheres, as well as the latest developments in the Middle East.”
Assad had been a key Russian ally, and Moscow’s decade-old military intervention was instrumental in keeping him in power until his removal in December. Russia, which has concentrated most of its military efforts on Ukraine, did not attempt to halt the rebel advance but granted Assad asylum after he fled Syria.
SANA, the Syrian state news agency, reported that the leaders will also discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest and explore ways to enhance cooperation for the benefit of both countries.
In a recent interview with CBS News’ “60 Minutes,” al-Sharaa said Syria’s current authorities “will use all available legal means” to demand a trial for Assad. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed reports that Assad had been poisoned, stating that he “has had no issues living in our capital” and was granted asylum on humanitarian grounds.
Despite being on opposing sides during the civil war, Syria’s new rulers have pursued a pragmatic approach to Russia. Moscow continues to maintain air and naval bases on the Syrian coast and has sent oil shipments to the country. A Russian delegation visited Damascus in January, while Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani visited Moscow in July.
Al-Sharaa highlighted Syria’s dependence on Russia for energy and food supplies, as well as the countries’ longstanding strategic ties, describing Moscow as “a close and long-standing partner.”
Source: AP