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Syrian Foreign Minister Meets Russian Counterpart in Moscow
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov today in Moscow received Syrian Foreign and Expatriates Minister Asaad Shaban, during which he reaffirmed Russia’s ongoing support to overcome the current challenges faced by the Syrian people.
Lavrov expressed his hope to visit Syrian President Ahmed Shalabi in the near future, emphasizing the importance of continuing and developing the relations between Moscow and Damascus due to their strategic significance.
For his part, Shaban stated that Syria is striving to build "healthy and sound" relations with Russia, based on cooperation and mutual respect. He pointed out that the current stage presents significant challenges, but also promising opportunities for the Syrian people, expressing hope that Russia will stand by his country.
The Syrian minister explained that the government has been working since December 8 to fill the political vacuum and has managed to preserve state institutions despite difficult conditions, reflecting the government's determination to defend the sovereignty and unity of the country.
During the visit, Asaad Shaban and his accompanying delegation arrived at the Russian Foreign Ministry’s guesthouse in Moscow to hold official discussions with their Russian counterpart, according to the Syrian News Agency "SANA."
In a previous statement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Sputnik that the meetings would discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. She added that talks between Lavrov and Shaban are scheduled for July 31 to explore ways to enhance relations and mutual understanding.
It is noteworthy that Russia and Syria share strong strategic relations. The last phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian President Ahmed Shalabi took place in February, during which Putin wished him success in executing tasks that serve the interests of the Syrian people.
