Moscow – On Wednesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a conversation with Ahmad al-Sharaa, the newly appointed leader of Syria. This marked the first significant dialogue at the highest level since the ousting of former President Bashar Assad.

The Kremlin characterized the discussion as “constructive and business-like,” addressing key matters regarding collaboration in areas such as trade, economics, and education. Both leaders agreed to maintain communication and work towards enhancing a comprehensive agenda focused on strengthening bilateral relations.

This call followed a visit by a group of Russian officials to Damascus last month, which was the first official delegation since Assad’s removal in December and his subsequent asylum in Russia. Throughout the Syrian civil conflict, Moscow had consistently supported Assad, even leading military operations since 2015 that enabled his regime to regain control over much of the nation.

In response to Assad’s departure, Russia has repositioned its military forces and resources throughout Syria, concentrating on its key location at the Hmeimim air base located near Latakia. Both the Kremlin and the interim Syrian administration have indicated that discussions regarding the future of the Russian air base, along with the naval installation in Tartus, are part of ongoing negotiations.

During his annual press conference in December, Putin expressed Russia’s readiness to allow Syria’s new leadership to utilize the Russian bases for humanitarian assistance, suggesting that Moscow might offer additional incentives.

The current Syrian authorities have opted to terminate a contract with a Russian firm responsible for updating the Tartus commercial port. However, this decision does not have an immediate effect on the Russian naval facility, which operates under a distinct agreement.