Moscow, Dec. 24 (SANA) Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani said Wednesday that Syrian-Russian relations are entering a new phase, emphasizing that talks between the two countries are now conducted with greater transparency and openness.
Speaking after a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, al-Shaibani said the goal is to elevate bilateral ties to a strategic level that serves the interests of both nations, while maintaining balanced and stable relations with all countries.
Al-Shaibani expressed hope that 2026 would mark a turning point for the Syrians, moving beyond the 14-year war and the legacy of the previous regime. He highlighted the lifting of international sanctions on Syria as a key achievement.
The foreign minister stressed that reconstruction efforts are guided by a “genuine national will,” with the government prioritizing the rebuilding of infrastructure and addressing humanitarian needs. He noted that roughly four million homes were destroyed during the war, millions of Syrians remain displaced abroad, and around 250,000 people are still missing since the era of the former regime.
Al-Shaibani also said that in just one year, Syria had successfully halted drug trafficking linked to the previous regime. He underscored the country’s desire to attract foreign investment to boost the economy and create jobs, describing it as a key area for international cooperation.
Russia Reaffirms Support for Syria
Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s support for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He referred to the Syrian delegation’s meeting with President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, which addressed bilateral relations, regional developments, and coordination on international platforms.
The Russian foreign minister also cited Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s visit to Moscow last October as “highly fruitful,” emphasizing that it reinforced Russia’s unwavering support for Syria’s unity and territorial integrity.
Lavrov added that the Syrian-Russian Joint Committee on Economic, Trade, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation had agreed to strengthen commercial and economic ties between the two nations.
Al-Shaibani and Lavrov also emphasized their rejection of Israel’s repeated violations of Syrian territory, underlining the need to respect international law and relevant resolutions of the international community.
Rejection of Israeli Violations
Al-Shaibani arrived in Moscow Tuesday accompanied by Defense Minister Major General Murhaf Abu Qasra and senior intelligence officials. Together, they discussed political, military, and economic issues of mutual interest with President Putin.
President al-Sharaa visited Moscow on October 15, where he met with President Putin and discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties and strategic cooperation.
