Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov announced that the interagency delegation from Russia held constructive talks with Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Syria's administration, in Damascus.
“The meeting went well overall. It lasted for about three hours, including an official lunch. The conversation was primarily led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new head of Syria’s interim government administration. Also participating were Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani and Health Minister Maher al-Sharaa, Ahmed's elder brother. Our interagency delegation was also present. The atmosphere was positive, and the talks were constructive. However, we are fully aware of how complex the situation in the country is,” Bogdanov said after the meeting.
He emphasized that the Russian delegation highlighted “the traditionally friendly nature of our relations since Syria gained independence after World War II, and the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations.” “We also discussed trade and economic ties. With the assistance of both the USSR and Russia, significant infrastructure projects have been developed in Syria, particularly in hydroelectric power. We've provided support with energy supplies, fertilizers, grain, and food. This has been ongoing, and we remain committed to continuing such cooperation based on agreements with the new Syrian authorities. Our goal is to foster mutually beneficial collaboration with Syria,” Bogdanov explained.
The deputy minister underscored that Russia's core approach towards Syria remains unchanged: “unwavering support for the unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty” of the country. “This is paramount. Despite the challenges Syria has faced over the past years and the dramatic change in leadership, it does not alter our assessments or our readiness to assist in stabilizing the situation and finding effective solutions to socio-political and socio-economic issues,” he noted.
According to Bogdanov, during the meeting, the Russian side also stressed the importance of addressing Syria's pressing issues through inclusive political dialogue, involving all political forces and ethnic and religious groups within the country. He believes this work “should be built on the principles of national consensus,” as it is “essential for preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the Syrian Arab Republic.”
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Based on materials from TASS