Russia, Syria adhere to principles, confront same enemies: al-Assad

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
28 Feb 2024 14:33

The Syrian President emphasizes the shared principles and dignity between Syria and Russia, highlighting the common struggle against mutual enemies and falsehoods.

President Bashar al-Assad during a meeting with participants in the Syrian-Russian youth camp (SANA via Bushra Dabin/Mazen Eyon)

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad emphasized that the Syrian-Russian relationship transcends politics, economy, and military cooperation, extending to social and popular dimensions. He highlighted the role of youth in shaping the future of this relationship during a speech at a meeting with participants in the Syrian-Russian youth camp.

“Both countries and people adhere to principles and dignity, and today we confront the same enemies and the same lies. Neo-Nazis in Ukraine attack civilians and Russia is the accused, and what happened in Syria is exactly similar,” President al-Assad said.

“If President Putin had not taken the decision to fight terrorism in Syria, the number of terrorists would have doubled in Russia, Some ask why President Putin sent planes to Syria, the answer is that he was protecting Russia and its people first and foremost,” he tersely stated.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Syrian President emphasized the importance of historical and national symbols in every society, urging pride in one's history and asserting that no one has the right to assail these symbols.

“The West is not hostile to Russia because of Ukraine or because it was a communist country, it has been hostile to it for three centuries because it was transforming from a weak country to a strong one, and the West does not accept powerful countries,” he said.

Meanwhile, participants in the dialogue shared opinions on the Syrian and Russian experiences, noting similarities in facing terrorism, extremism, unipolar policy, and countering media fabrication. They discussed the role of Syrian-Russian youth in enhancing cooperation, strengthening families and society, and upholding values and identity.