Al-Sharaa and Putin Discuss via Phone the Enhancement of Bilateral Relations and Regional Developments

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa held a telephone conversation yesterday with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, during which the two sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to develop them, as well as enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest. President Putin reaffirmed his country’s support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and reiterated Russia’s rejection of Israeli aggression and violations that infringe upon Syria’s sovereignty. The official Syrian news agency, SANA, reported that the two sides discussed recent developments in the region during the call, emphasizing the importance of continuing coordination and consultation and strengthening communication between the two countries, in a manner that serves their common interests and supports security and stability in Syria and the region. For its part, the Russian presidential administration, the Kremlin, stated in a statement on its official website that the two sides discussed the current state of Russian-Syrian relations and prospects for their development, reaffirming their commitment to deepening political dialogue and cooperation in trade, economic, humanitarian, and other fields. The Kremlin added: “Vladimir Putin once again underscored his principled position supporting Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, and creating the necessary conditions for long-term normalization of relations and reconstruction.” It further noted: “The two sides highlighted the importance of the memorandum of understanding signed on August 9 regarding the reorganization of the Hmeimim air base and the material and technical supply center in Tartus.”