Syria confirms commitment to Russian military base agreements: media

The newly established Syrian authorities have made it clear that they do not intend to cancel the agreements with Russia concerning military bases in the Latakia and Tartus provinces.

The ongoing negotiations between Moscow and Damascus emphasize that the shift in Syria’s political landscape, including the change in regime, will not be considered a force majeure event that could justify the termination of long-term lease agreements for these key military facilities, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

A source familiar with the discussions said that both sides are working to ensure that no changes in the level of hostilities or the political situation in Syria would impact the agreements that secure Russia's military presence in the region.

“Russia is focused on preserving the legal status of its military bases, and the talks are centered on ensuring that military conflict or regime changes will not be grounds for invalidating these long-term lease agreements,” the source stated.

Earlier in December, a media report indicated that Russia had begun negotiations with the new Syrian leadership to ensure the continued operation of its military bases in Syria. It was also confirmed that Syria has guaranteed the security of Russian military installations throughout the duration of the talks.

By Vafa Guliyeva