Putin and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa Meet in Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to the Kremlin Palace for high-level talks marking Sharaa’s first official visit to Russia since taking office.

The Russian delegation included Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak, and Foreign Policy Adviser Yuriy Ushakov, while Syria was represented by Foreign Minister Esad Hasan Shaybani, Defense Minister Murhef Abu Kasra, Intelligence Chief Hussein al-Selameh, and Presidential Secretary Mahir al-Sharaa.

PUTIN: “OUR RELATIONSHIP IS BUILT ON FRIENDSHIP, NOT INTEREST”

In his opening remarks, Putin highlighted the 80-year history of diplomatic relations between Moscow and Damascus, noting that the two nations had remained close even during the Soviet era.

“Relations between Syria and Russia have always been friendly. We have never acted based on political or economic interests. For decades, our only motivation has been the well-being of the Syrian people,” Putin said.

He underlined the deep social and cultural ties between the two countries, emphasizing that over 4,000 Syrian students are currently studying at Russian universities.

“I believe these young people will play a vital role in rebuilding and strengthening Syria in the years to come,” he added.

PUTIN PRAISES SYRIA’S RECENT ELECTIONS

Referring to Syria’s recent parliamentary elections, Putin described the process as “a significant step toward strengthening society.”

“Despite the challenges Syria is facing, this election will help reinforce dialogue among all political forces,” he said.

Putin also announced that the Russia-Syria Intergovernmental Commission, active since 1993, has resumed operations.

“Many promising projects have been identified, and through our Foreign Ministry, we are committed to supporting their implementation,” he stated.

AL-SHARAA: “SYRIA IS REBORN, AND RUSSIA IS OUR PARTNER IN THIS JOURNEY”

President Ahmed al-Sharaa praised Russia’s historic support and reaffirmed Syria’s intention to deepen cooperation:

“We are introducing a new Syria to the world, and Russia remains our key partner in this transformation. The bonds between our nations are not only historical—they are strategic.”

Al-Sharaa added that his government was determined to rebuild ties across all sectors:

“Russia has given us many gains and continues to stand by us through economic and political cooperation. Our goal now is stability—both in Syria and across the region.”

ASSAD ISSUE ON THE TABLE

A senior Syrian official told reporters that the fate of ousted former leader Bashar al-Assad was among the key topics discussed in Moscow.

Assad’s regime collapsed in December last year after more than 13 years of civil war. He and his family were later granted humanitarian asylum in Russia, where they remain.

According to the same source, Sharaa formally requested Russia’s cooperation in handling Assad’s case during the meeting.

A NEW ERA IN RUSSIA–SYRIA RELATIONS

Following the talks, both sides announced plans to expand cooperation in economic, defense, and cultural fields.

Putin concluded the meeting with a clear message:

“Russia will continue to fully support Syria’s reconstruction and the development of a stable and prosperous state.”