Syria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani, and Minister of Defense, Major General Murhaf Abu Qasra, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday for extensive discussions covering political, military, and economic cooperation between the two allied countries.

According to sources familiar with the talks, the meeting underscored the depth of the long-standing strategic partnership between Damascus and Moscow, with particular emphasis placed on strengthening cooperation in the military industries sector. Both sides reviewed mechanisms to advance military and technical collaboration in a way that enhances the defensive capabilities of the Syrian Arab Army and aligns it with modern developments in military technology.

Discussions reportedly focused on upgrading existing military equipment, transferring technical expertise and know-how, and expanding cooperation in research and development. The Syrian delegation highlighted the importance of rebuilding and modernizing defense infrastructure after years of war, while Russian officials reiterated their readiness to support Syria’s efforts to develop a self-sustaining national defense system. Officials noted that such cooperation is viewed as a key pillar for maintaining security and stability not only in Syria, but across the wider region.

On the political front, the talks included an exchange of views on pressing regional and international developments, including ongoing tensions in the Middle East and shifting global power dynamics. Both sides stressed the importance of continued political and diplomatic coordination between Damascus and Moscow in international forums, particularly at the United Nations. They reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of international law and state sovereignty, while firmly rejecting all forms of external interference in the internal affairs of states.

Economic cooperation also featured prominently on the agenda. The two sides explored prospects for expanding trade and economic ties, including Russian support for Syria’s post-war reconstruction efforts. Discussions covered potential cooperation in infrastructure development, energy, transport, and industrial sectors, as well as measures to encourage Russian investment in Syria. Officials emphasized that boosting trade exchange and facilitating joint economic projects would have a positive impact on the Syrian economy and contribute to improving living conditions for the Syrian population.

President Putin reaffirmed Russia’s steadfast support for Syria, stressing Moscow’s commitment to preserving Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, and full sovereignty. He reiterated Russia’s rejection of any projects aimed at partitioning the country or undermining its independent national decision-making.

Putin also renewed Russia’s condemnation of repeated Israeli violations of Syrian territory, describing them as a direct threat to regional security and stability. He emphasized that such actions violate international law and further complicate efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.

The Moscow meeting comes amid renewed diplomatic activity between Syria and its key allies, as Damascus seeks to consolidate stability, rebuild state institutions, and expand international partnerships following more than a decade of conflict. Observers say the talks reflect both countries’ intention to deepen their strategic alliance and adapt it to new political, military, and economic realities. (ILKHA)