Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa spoke for the first time on Wednesday.
The Kremlin said Putin spoke to al-Sharaa, who led the campaign to topple the regime of Bashar al-Assad in early December, about “the current situation in Syria.”
Syrian television, quoting a statement from the presidency, said al-Shaara affirmed to Putin the strategic ties between the two countries and his openness to all parties that can help enhance the security and stability. Putin reported invited the Syrian foreign minister to visit Moscow.
The Kremlin statement said that the Russian side had declared its support for Syria’s unity and sovereignty. Putin also offered help to improve the social and economic situation of the war-torn country, it said.
The statement did not mention that Russia was the protector of al-Assad until his ouster two months ago – and that it granted him asylum after his fall.
In support of al-Assad, the Russian air force had bombed many Syrian cities in an unsuccessful bid to slow the advance of the anti-government forces.
A major unresolved question between Moscow and Damascus is what will happen to the Russian military’s bases in Syria, Hmeimim and Tartus.
The only reference to such issues was the formulation that Moscow and Damascus wanted to remain in contact to cooperate in the economy, education “and other areas.”
Reference was made to the visit of two Russian deputy foreign ministers to Syria in January, when military issues were discussed.
Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa stands during a meeting at the presidential palace in Damascus. Jörg Blank/dpa
