Syria's New FM Visits Moscow to Strengthen Ties Post-Assad

Moscow, July 31 (AP) – Russia's top diplomat welcomed Syria’s Foreign Minister in Moscow, marking the first official visit by a member of Syria’s new government since the ousting of former President Bashar Assad last year, despite prolonged Russian backing.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov commenced discussions with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani, expressing Russia’s earnest hope that “the Syrian people, with whom we share a long-standing friendship, can overcome current challenges and fully restore normalcy.” Al-Shibani reciprocated by stating Syria’s interest in nurturing ties with Russia, emphasizing the importance of having Russia “by our side.”

Assad, a staunch Russian ally, was supported by Moscow’s significant military intervention a decade ago, which shifted the trajectory of Syria's civil war in his favor. However, when insurgent groups mounted a renewed offensive last year, Russia opted not to intervene to preserve Assad's power.

After his ousting, Assad found refuge in Russia. He later contended via Facebook that he wished to remain in Syria and continue fighting, but claimed that Russian forces extracted him.

Despite prior hostilities, Syria's new leadership under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa has adopted a pragmatic stance towards Moscow.

A Russian delegation visited Damascus in January, followed by a constructive phone call between President Vladimir Putin and al-Sharaa, as characterized by the Kremlin. Russian military forces continue to have a presence on Syria's coast, and there have been reports of oil shipments from Russia to the region.

Al-Sharaa expressed gratitude towards Russia for opposing Israeli strikes and repeated breaches of Syrian sovereignty, especially after Israel intervened in recent clashes involving Syrian government forces and Druze minority armed groups.

Lavrov, addressing the press post-talks, appreciated Syria for measures ensuring the safety of Russian citizens and facilities.

“We reiterated our commitment to maintaining Syria's unity, territorial integrity, and independence, and stand ready to assist in post-conflict recovery efforts. Our dialogue on these matters will continue,” Lavrov confirmed.

Without directly referencing Assad, al-Shibani urged Russia's support for Syria’s post-Assad “transitional justice” process, mentioning the establishment of a committee to evaluate existing agreements with Russia.

Al-Shibani criticized Israel's “interference in internal affairs,” stating that it hinders efforts to reconcile Syria's diverse communities.

He indicated that despite external pressures, Syria’s new administration has consistently affirmed, “we have no hostile intentions towards Israel. Syria seeks only to rebuild and is weary from the past 14 years of warfare.” (AP) SKS NPK NPK

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