Russia strengthens ties with Syria's transitional government in Ankara meeting

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed that during his visit to Ankara on February 23-24, he held a meeting with Asaad al-Shaibani, the foreign minister of Syria’s transitional government.

The meeting, which was part of Lavrov's diplomatic efforts, highlighted Russia's support for Syria’s political processes, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

Speaking at a press conference, Lavrov elaborated on the discussions held, noting that he and his colleagues had underscored their commitment to Syria's national harmony and political inclusivity.

"We drew the attention of our colleagues from the OSCE (Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe) that during the telephone conversation between President Vladimir Putin and the new Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, as well as during the visit to Damascus by an inter-agency delegation led by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, all necessary assurances were provided. The course for national harmony and inclusiveness of political processes was confirmed," Lavrov stated.

Lavrov's visit and the discussions with Syria’s transitional government highlight Russia’s ongoing support for a peaceful resolution in Syria, a process that requires the involvement of all groups in the country’s political landscape. In line with this, Lavrov reiterated the importance of a fully inclusive political dialogue in Syria, stressing that no group should be left out of the political process.

"Absolutely non-alternative should be the approach that will actually ensure the involvement of all representatives of ethnic, confessional, and, of course, political groups in the political process without exception," Lavrov stated, reinforcing the need for unity among Syria’s diverse communities.

On January 28, a Russian inter-agency delegation, led by Mikhail Bogdanov, Special Representative of the Russian President for the Middle East and Africa and Deputy Foreign Minister, visited Damascus. This marked the first official visit to Syria following the change of administration in Syria.

The delegation met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s new government, and held substantive discussions. The meeting was attended by members of Syria’s interim government, including Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and Minister of Health Maher al-Sharaa.

During the talks, both sides focused on the broad scope of Russian-Syrian relations, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation based on traditional friendship and mutual respect. The Russian delegation reaffirmed its firm support for Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. Russia also pledged its readiness to continue assisting Syria as it works toward national recovery in the aftermath of the crisis.

By Vafa Guliyeva