Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa engaged in a phone call to discuss the strategic reorganization of Russian military presence at the Hmeimim and Tartus bases. The conversation underscored the significance of the memorandum of understanding aimed at restructuring these pivotal military sites.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Kremlin released a statement highlighting the dialogue's focus on enhancing Moscow-Damascus relations, with both leaders expressing a commitment to advancing political dialogue and cooperation in various sectors, including trade, economic, and humanitarian areas. The discussion also reaffirmed Putin's steadfast support for Syria's unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, emphasizing the need for conditions conducive to long-term normalization and post-conflict reconstruction.

The statement further noted the critical nature of the memorandum signed on August 9, which outlines the reorganization of the Hmeimim Air Base and the Tartus Logistics Facility. Both leaders agreed to maintain regular contact at multiple levels to ensure the successful implementation of these plans.

The Syrian presidency confirmed that the discussions also covered bilateral relations and the expansion of cooperation across areas of mutual interest. Putin reiterated Russia's backing of Syria's unity and territorial integrity, while denouncing Israeli actions that infringe upon Syrian sovereignty.

Regional developments were a key topic, with both sides stressing the importance of ongoing coordination and communication between Damascus and Moscow to safeguard mutual interests and promote stability and security in Syria and the broader region.

This phone call marks the first known interaction between the presidents since Sharaa's visit to Moscow in January. The August 9 memorandum followed approximately 18 months of negotiations, as reported by the Syrian Foreign Ministry.