What does the Syrian interim government want from Putin?
On Wednesday, Lavrov met with Syrian Interim Government Foreign Minister Asad Hassan al-Shaibani in Moscow, and told the Syrian official: “Yesterday you had a very good conversation with the Russian President, during which we discussed bilateral issues and the situation in the region.” He added: “I know that in that meeting you expressed your satisfaction with our interaction in the international arena and your desire to deepen cooperation.” Referring to the submission of the requests of the Syrian Interim Government Foreign Minister in his meeting with Putin, the Russian Foreign Minister said, “Today’s (Wednesday) talks provide us with a good opportunity to examine this issue in detail and find ways to achieve this goal.” In another part of his speech at the beginning of the meeting, Lavrov emphasized: “Russia has unequivocally emphasized its commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of the Syrian Arab Republic.”
Damascus-Moscow relations are entering a new stage
The Syrian Interim Government Foreign Minister also noted in this meeting: Damascus-Moscow relations are entering a new stage.
Al-Shaibani added: “Last year was an important year for Syria, especially since it marked the end of the 14-year war in the country.”