A Meeting Between Al-Shibani and a High-Level Russian Delegation Begins in Damascus

The Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Syrian Transitional Government, Asaad Al-Shibani, received today, Tuesday, a Russian delegation headed by Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak at the Presidential Palace in Damascus, according to the SANA news agency.

Al-Shibani opened the meeting by affirming that his country wants to see Russia clearly standing by Syria’s unity, pointing to clear attempts to impose division and tear the country apart. He added that Syria’s weakness leads to increased opportunities for chaos and terrorism in the region.

For his part, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced that Russia and Syria are entering a new historic phase in their relations, which will be built on the basis of mutual respect. This came during a press conference held by the Russian official alongside the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates after bilateral talks covering economy, security, defense, and politics.

Syrian state television had previously announced the arrival of a Russian plane at Damascus International Airport, carrying a high-level delegation from Moscow on an unannounced and unexpected visit. Diplomatic sources confirmed that the delegation includes prominent military and political officials, in a move that reflects Moscow’s interest in strengthening its presence in Syria—particularly in light of recent developments and the escalation of Israeli strikes on Syrian military sites.