Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to host Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa in what marks Sharaa's first visit to Russia. The meeting is aimed at discussing the current state and future prospects of Russia-Syria relations across various sectors including politics, trade, economy, and cultural and humanitarian affairs. The Kremlin announced these plans on Wednesday, highlighting the significance of recent developments in the Middle East as part of the agenda.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) confirmed Sharaa's visit, emphasizing its goal of reorganizing bilateral relations and enhancing political and economic cooperation between the two countries. In addition to his meeting with President Putin, Sharaa is expected to engage with members of the Syrian community residing in Russia.

During a meeting with Arab journalists on Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov revealed that Syria is keen on maintaining Russian military bases within its territory, though there may be changes in their operational focus to align with new strategic realities, as reported by Russia's state news agency Tass.

In February, a phone conversation between Putin and Sharaa reaffirmed Russia's commitment to Syria's unity, sovereignty, and stability. Putin expressed a willingness to revisit agreements previously made with the Assad regime and advocated for the lifting of economic sanctions on Syria.

This visit follows the recent trip by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak to Damascus on September 9, where discussions with Syrian officials covered energy cooperation and humanitarian aid.

The backdrop to these developments includes the departure of Bashar al-Assad to Russia in late 2024, which concluded the Baath Party's long-standing control over Syria that began in 1963. A transitional administration, spearheaded by Sharaa, was established in January to navigate the country's future.