WORLD NEWS

New Syrian Government Seeks Stronger Ties with Russia During First Official Visit to Moscow

Syria’s new Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani calls for deeper cooperation with Russia and invites support for post-Assad reconstruction and sovereignty. The post-war diplomacy takes shape amid regional tensions and legacy ties.
2025-07-31
New Syrian Government Seeks Stronger Ties with Russia During First Official Visit to Moscow

Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani made the first formal visit to Moscow by an official of the post-Assad government, expressing a desire for Russia to stand “by our side” as Syria navigates a challenging path forward. Speaking alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, al-Shaibani acknowledged the complicated past between the two nations but stressed that future relations should be founded on mutual respect.

The visit signals a significant diplomatic step for the transitional Syrian government led by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, which came to power following the ousting of longtime Russian ally Bashar al-Assad in a swift uprising last year. Assad, who fled to Moscow, has since criticized Russian actions post-exile.

Despite their former opposing roles in Syria's brutal civil war—where Russia heavily supported the Assad regime militarily—Damascus’ new leadership appears keen on maintaining a strategic partnership with Moscow, particularly in light of ongoing Israeli strikes and regional instability.

Lavrov welcomed the Syrian outreach and reiterated Russia’s commitment to Syria’s unity and territorial sovereignty. He also praised efforts by Syrian authorities to protect Russian personnel and assets still stationed in the country. However, future control over Russian military bases in Tartous and Khmeimim remains uncertain.

Al-Shaibani emphasized Syria’s intent to pursue “transitional justice” and review prior agreements made with Moscow, signaling a more cautious and sovereign-oriented approach to bilateral ties.

Russia has invited President al-Sharaa to the upcoming Russia-Arab League summit scheduled for October 15, highlighting a potential new phase in regional diplomacy for Syria.