Russia, Syria agree to continue talks on military bases: Bogdanov
3 Min Read
The new Syrian government says discussions between the Russian delegation and Syrian administration leader Ahmad al-Sharaa covered Moscow’s potential role in Syria’s reconstruction and restoration.
-
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov (TASS)
Russia and Syria have agreed to continue consultations regarding the future of Russian military bases in Syria, with no current changes to their presence, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stated on Tuesday.
"We expressed our gratitude that our citizens and facilities were not affected by the events of recent weeks. And we expressed the hope that this line will be maintained, that our interests will not be affected in Syria," Bogdanov told reporters.
"So far, nothing is changing [regarding Russian bases]. This issue requires additional negotiations. We have agreed to continue more in-depth consultations on each area of our cooperation."
Bogdanov clarified that the agreement on the management of the Tartus port is purely a technical matter.
"This is a purely technical issue related to the work of our company. I think it is possible to find some mutually acceptable solutions to the issues," he said in response to inquiries about whether the issue was discussed during talks in Damascus, following media reports suggesting Syria had terminated the investment agreement with Russia.
In a related context, the Russian diplomat said a Russian interdepartmental delegation held discussions in Damascus with Ahmad al-Sharaa, head of the Syrian administration, describing the talks, which lasted approximately three hours, as constructive.
"The meeting was generally constructive, and the atmosphere was good. But we understand how difficult the situation is [in the country]," Bogdanov told reporters.
He added that the talks in Damascus also addressed trade and economic cooperation.
"We also discussed issues of trade and economic relations. With the help of the Soviet Union and the Russian Federation, important infrastructure facilities were created in Syria, especially hydropower facilities, and our help was in providing energy, fertilizers, grain, and food. All this has been done and we are ready to continue, in accordance with the agreements already reached with the new Syrian authorities. We are determined to build mutually beneficial cooperation with Syria," Bogdanov pointed out.
He also emphasized Russia’s steadfast position in supporting Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
Russia's role in Syria’s reconstruction
On its part, the new Syrian government mentioned that discussions between the Russian delegation and Syrian administration leader Ahmad al-Sharaa also covered Moscow’s potential role in Syria’s reconstruction and restoration.
"The Russian delegation, led by Special Representative for the Middle East Mikhail Bogdanov, met with the new Syrian administration in Damascus ... The dialogue revealed Russia's role in restoring trust in relations with the Syrian people through tangible measures such as compensation, reconstruction and restoration," the Syrian government stated on Telegram.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as mechanisms for ensuring justice during the transitional period, the statement noted.
According to the government, Damascus reaffirmed its intentions to engage "with all interested parties." Al-Sharaa reportedly stated that "restoring relations" between Syria and Russia should "heal" past mistakes, reflect respect for the Syrian people’s will, and serve their interests.
