Syria’s transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa is visiting Moscow on Wednesday for his first official visit since taking office, Damascus said.
According to a statement issued by state news agency SANA, the visit aims to “reshape relations with Russia” and expand political and economic cooperation.
Why are Syrian leaders going to Russia?
Al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss regional and international developments and explore ways to strengthen bilateral ties. During this visit, he is also expected to meet members of the Syrian community living in Russia.
This journey marks a symbolic turning point. Al-Sharaa, who led the rebel coalition that ousted Kremlin ally Assad last December, is trying to redefine Syria’s foreign policy after years of isolation and conflict.
Russia provided military aid to the Assad regime during the civil war and continues to host the former president and his family, who were granted asylum following his ouster.
In a phone call in February, Putin reaffirmed “Russia’s support for the unity and stability of Syria” and expressed readiness to revisit several military and economic agreements signed under the previous government.
Syrian officials say the Moscow visit could “open a new chapter” in bilateral relations, which will focus primarily on reconstruction and economic recovery.
With much of Syria still reeling from war damage, sanctions and energy shortages, observers see the talks as an important test of how much Russia is willing to work with the country’s post-Assad leadership.
Syrian officials are also believed to be seeking guarantees that Moscow will not help regroup what remains of Assad’s forces
The Kremlin said the fate of Russia’s two main bases in Syria – Hmeimim air base in Syria’s Latakia province and its naval facility in Tartus on the coast – was due to be discussed.
The visit also comes amid changing regional diplomacy, as Damascus seeks renewed engagement with Arab states and major powers after more than a decade of conflict.
Edited by: Wesley Rahn