Syrian foreign minister to visit Moscow as new era in bilateral relations begins

Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani is scheduled to visit Moscow for an official visit aimed at discussing bilateral relations with Russian officials, in what observers are calling the most significant development in ties between Russia and Syria’s new administration.

The visit marks a pivotal moment in Damascus-Moscow relations, as it signals the deepening engagement between Russia and the new Syrian leadership following the departure of former President Bashar al-Assad, Caliber.Az reports, citing Syrian media.

Russia had long been the primary international backer of the Assad regime, providing military and political support throughout Syria’s protracted civil conflict.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov first announced the invitation in late May, referencing a meeting with al-Shaibani held earlier this year in Ankara.

"At the kind invitation of my friend, [Turkish Foreign Minister] Hakan Fidan, we met in his presence with Syrian Foreign Minister al-Shaibani, and he received an invitation to visit Russia," Lavrov stated.

Lavrov and al-Shaibani previously met on February 23-24 during the Russian foreign minister’s visit to the Turkish capital. The meeting was described as part of a broader effort by Moscow to cultivate ties with Syria’s new leadership.

Lavrov also noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has been actively involved in monitoring developments in Syria and has held discussions with newly appointed Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Furthermore, Russian Presidential Special Envoy Mikhail Bogdanov recently led a delegation to Damascus to advance diplomatic engagement.

By Vafa Guliyeva