Moscow: Russia and Syria are currently engaging in discussions regarding Moscow's presence in the region, with a focus on reorganizing Russian military facilities. The talks also encompass cooperation in the oil, energy, and reconstruction sectors.
According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova emphasized that these discussions are part of a comprehensive bilateral agenda. "Our bilateral agenda with Syria covers a wide range of issues related to Russian-Syrian cooperation. Our military presence in Syria is also discussed, including in the context of the possible restructuring of Russian military facilities. Naturally, such issues and contacts are conducted behind closed doors," Zakharova told reporters. She highlighted that the Russian Defense Ministry is the primary entity responsible for these matters, noting that dialogue between the military departments of both countries will persist, with updates provided when possible.
Russia currently operates two significant military facilities in Syria: a Navy logistics base in the port city of Tartus and the Khmeimim airbase in Latakia province. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated that Moscow is prepared to engage in the development of Syria's oil fields and to expand cooperation in energy and reconstruction. This follows discussions between President Vladimir Putin and Syrian Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Moscow.
Novak remarked, "Russian companies have been working in Syria for a long time, in oil fields: there are fields that require development, there are those that have been mothballed, and there are new fields. We are also ready to participate." He further explained that the talks between the two presidents focused on joint projects and the restoration of Syria's transport and energy infrastructure. "We generally agree that Syria is currently in need of reconstruction. They have a lot of destroyed infrastructure: energy, rail, and transport infrastructure. And Russia can provide support here," he said.
In addition to infrastructure projects, Novak mentioned that humanitarian supplies were also discussed, with Syria expressing interest in receiving wheat, food, and medicine. He added that both nations agreed to convene a meeting of an intergovernmental commission in the near future to explore trade, economic, and investment cooperation, including projects in energy, transport, healthcare, tourism, and culture. Novak concluded by stating that Russian companies are eager to develop transport infrastructure and restore the energy sector, with plans to use domestic equipment in Syria's reconstruction efforts.