Russian Deputy FM Aims to Strengthen Relations with Syria and Aid Reconstruction Efforts
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Synopsis
Russian Deputy FM Mikhail Bogdanov announced plans to reinforce relations with Syria and support its reconstruction during a meeting with Syrian leaders. The discussions emphasized bilateral cooperation in various sectors amidst ongoing political changes.
Key Takeaways
- Russia aims to enhance relations with Syria.
- Focus on reconstruction and investment in multiple sectors.
- Concerns over Russian facilities in Syria addressed.
- First visit by Russian officials since December 2024.
- Dialogue on cooperation to remain comprehensive.
Damascus, Jan 29 (NationPress) Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov expressed that Russia is eager to enhance its relations with Syria and facilitate its reconstruction, as reported by Russian media.
Leading a senior Russian delegation to meet with Syria's acting leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, alongside other prominent Syrian officials, Bogdanov noted to RT Arabic news network that the discussions were “constructive and positive,” with both parties emphasizing their “historic” and “uninterrupted” bilateral partnership.
The two sides committed to strengthening ties across various sectors, including infrastructure, electricity, oil and gas, agriculture, fertilizers, and railways. Bogdanov, who also serves as Russian President Vladimir Putin's special envoy for the Middle East and Africa, was quoted by Xinhua news agency via RT Arabic.
“We agreed to maintain a comprehensive dialogue on all aspects of cooperation,” he stated, adding that Moscow is prepared to assist with Syria's reconstruction efforts and to host Syrian delegations “whenever they request.”
Bogdanov addressed concerns regarding the Russian facilities in Tartous and Hmeimim in northwestern Syria, asserting they remain unaffected by the recent political developments in Syria.
He described rumors regarding changes to contracts for the Russian-operated Tartous Port as “purely commercial” and likely to be resolved “amicably,” emphasizing Russian companies' willingness to continue investing in the port despite previous challenges.
As of now, there has been no official comment from the Syrian side regarding the meeting.
This visit by the Russian delegation, the length of which has not been disclosed, marks the first by Russian officials to Syria since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government in December 2024.
