Damascus: The Russian Foreign Ministry announced its intention to collaborate with Syria based on principles of friendship and mutual respect following a recent visit to Damascus by a Russian delegation.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the delegation, led by Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia’s Special Representative for the Middle East and African Countries and Deputy Foreign Minister, marked the first visit after the change of power in Syria. The head of the new Syrian Administration, Ahmed al-Shara, received the delegation for a detailed dialogue in the presence of Syrian Interim Government members, including Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and Health Minister Maher al-Shara.

The discussions between the two sides emphasized the desire to continue building bilateral cooperation based on traditional friendship and mutual respect. The Russian side reaffirmed its support for Syria’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty, expressing readiness to assist in the country’s post-crisis reconstruction.

The visit included an exchange of views on Syria’s internal situation and regional matters. Both parties highlighted the need for Syrians to address their internal issues through a sustainable political process involving all political, ethnic, and religious groups.

The two sides agreed to maintain bilateral contacts to strengthen relations and mutual understanding, including foreign policy aspects. Mikhail Bogdanov described Russian-Syrian relations as strategic and reiterated Russia’s support for Syria’s stabilization efforts.