Al-Shaybani and Lavrov Affirm a New Chapter in Syrian-Russian Relations: Comprehensive Support and Reconstruction

In an important diplomatic meeting held in Moscow on Thursday, Syrian and Russian Foreign Ministers, Assad al-Shaybani and Sergei Lavrov, affirmed their aspirations for strengthening bilateral relations and supporting stability in Syria. Their statements came during a joint press conference, where al-Shaybani emphasized his country's desire to open a new chapter of cooperation, while Lavrov affirmed Moscow's readiness to provide all support to the Syrian people.

Al-Shaybani: Syria Seeks Comprehensive Russian Cooperation and Reconstruction

The Syrian Foreign Minister, Assad al-Shaybani, expressed his country's hope for a "new and proper relationship between Russia and Syria based on respect and cooperation." He noted that there are "many opportunities for a unified and strong Syria," expressing his hope that "Russia will stand with us on this path."

Al-Shaybani revealed that both parties agreed to form two committees to review all previous agreements between the two countries, stressing that Syria "looks forward to comprehensive Russian cooperation to support transitional justice in Syria." He added that Syrian-Russian relations are going through "an important stage," especially as the country enters "a reconstruction phase," which requires "all partners" and looking to the future "with confident steps."

Al-Shaybani also emphasized that "a new page has begun in Syria, and Russia can play a role in recovery," asserting that "cooperation between Syria and Russia is based on mutual respect and common will." Regarding regional issues, al-Shaybani pointed out that "Russia rejected violations against Syrian sovereignty," while also affirming, "we have no hostile intentions towards Israel."

On Syria's internal affairs, al-Shaybani stated that "we do not have a majority and a minority, and there are countries that want to play on what they call minorities," indicating that "the next People's Assembly will represent all Syrian people and the state is committed to holding all perpetrators of violations accountable." He touched upon the situation in Sweida, saying, "the solution in Sweida requires the state to take charge of security affairs and protect civilians; the protection of the Druze is the responsibility of the Syrian government."

Lavrov: Support for Syria's Unity and Rejection of Violations

For his part, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov affirmed Moscow's support for Syria's unity and territorial integrity, stating that "Israel has violated UN resolutions in Syria regarding the Golan."

Lavrov noted that his meeting with al-Shaybani "discussed the review of previous agreements between the two countries, and prospects for cooperation with Syria in all fields, including security, economy, and trade," confirming his agreement with al-Shaybani to "continue joint meetings."

He stressed that Russia "opposes Syria becoming an arena for conflict between major powers," affirming that talks with the Syrian delegation were "very useful," and that Russia is "ready to provide all support to the Syrian people." In an important step, Lavrov called for "lifting all sanctions on Syria," considering that "Washington's steps in this regard are correct."

Lavrov concluded his remarks by inviting Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to attend the Russian-Arab Summit in Moscow, scheduled for October, indicating Russia's desire to strengthen Syria's regional and international role.