The presidents of Syria and Russia, Bashar al-Assad and Vladimir Putin, congratulated each other on the 80th anniversary of the beginning of diplomatic relations between the two nations. 

According to Syrian state media SANA, in spite of constant pressure and attempts to weaken their resolve, President al-Assad emphasized that both nations have supported one another for eight decades and have stayed steadfast in their commitment to values and dignity.

President al-Assad asserted that Russia’s unshakeable stances would pave the way for a multipolar world, “in light of the hegemony we face and the war we are witnessing, yet the final word is resilience, not retreat or defeat."

President al-Assad congratulated the Russian people on their long-standing solid ties and mutual trust with the Syrian people, speaking for both himself and his people.

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President al-Assad went on to say that Russian policies and positions are founded on respect for the principles of state sovereignty as he wished for continued success in Syrian-Russian relations, as well as more advancement for the Russian leadership and people.

Putin, in response, emphasized Russia's ongoing support for Syria in maintaining its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, saying that the goal of Russian-Syrian relations is to advance regional and global peace and stability.

The Russian President congratulated the Syrian government and people and wished them prosperity. He emphasized that both nations had made significant progress together in a number of areas, most notably the fight against terrorism.

Back in April, Major General Ali Mamlouk, the National Security Advisor at the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Syrian Republic, and Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Russian Security Council, emphasized the significance of enhancing Syria-Russia relations and coordinating efforts to combat terrorism during a meeting held in Moscow.

Patrushev highlighted the long-standing historical ties between Russia and Syria, noting that the two nations will commemorate the 80th anniversary of their establishment in July. He affirmed Russia's commitment to ongoing support across various sectors in Syria.

On his part, Mamlouk highlighted the resilience of the Syrian people under President Bashar al-Assad's leadership, coupled with the sacrifices of the Syrian Arab Army and the support from Russia, which have effectively thwarted terrorist organizations' plots.

He reiterated Syria's full endorsement of Russia's military operation in Ukraine, framing it as a historical correction and a defense of justice and humanity.