MOSCOW, RUSSIA (Agencies) July 31, 2025 – Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani led a high-ranking delegation to Moscow on Thursday in the first official visit between Syria and Russia since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s government last year. The meeting signals an attempt by Syria’s new leadership to reaffirm strategic ties with Moscow amid sweeping political changes.
Al-Shaibani held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov at the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Guest House, emphasizing the need for a “correct and sound relationship” rooted in “mutual respect and cooperation.” He said Syria’s new administration has prioritized rebuilding civil governance and national unity since assuming power in December 2024.
“We are here today to represent the new Syria,” al-Shaibani stated. “We have preserved institutions, restored public services, and are working to reunite Syrians both inside and outside the country.”
Lavrov expressed cautious optimism, reaffirming Russia’s continued support for Syria’s reconstruction. He acknowledged the depth of historical ties and underscored hopes that Syria would navigate the transitional period peacefully. Lavrov also referenced earlier discussions in Turkey and voiced interest in having Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa participate in the upcoming Russian-Arab summit in October.
However, the future of Russia’s military footprint in Syria remains uncertain. The naval facility in Tartus and air base at Hmeimim—critical pillars of Russia’s Mediterranean strategy—face renewed scrutiny under the Islamist-led Syrian government that once opposed Moscow’s military intervention during the civil war.
Al-Shaibani acknowledged these unresolved issues, but framed the visit as a “new chapter” in bilateral relations. “We see this as a moment to build a united and strong Syria, and we hope our Russian partners will stand with us.”
The visit comes amid shifting alliances and regional recalibrations following Assad’s ouster. Russia is reportedly reassessing its engagement strategy with the new Syrian leadership, balancing geopolitical interests with evolving on-the-ground realities.