Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed their joint commitment to supporting Syria’s territorial integrity and long-term stability during a high-level meeting in Moscow on Tuesday.

Speaking at a joint press conference following their talks, Fidan stated, “We are working with Russia to ensure Syria's territorial integrity and to achieve lasting stability in the region.” He emphasized Turkey's support for efforts to combat terrorism and called for the integration of all armed factions into the Syrian army.

Fidan also underscored the importance of lifting U.S. sanctions on Syria, describing it as a crucial step toward improving humanitarian conditions and advancing reconstruction efforts.

Russia Announces Plans for Closer Cooperation with Syria

Lavrov echoed Turkey's position on Syria, stating, “We reaffirm our shared commitment to Syria’s unity and sovereignty.” He confirmed that Russia would continue to support the Syrian authorities as they navigate the challenges of the ongoing transitional phase.

Lavrov also announced that Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani had received an official invitation to visit Moscow. “At the kind suggestion of my friend Hakan Fidan, we met in Antalya earlier this year in the presence of Syrian Foreign Minister al-Shaibani, and he has now been invited to visit Russia,” Lavrov said, according to TASS.

Putin and al-Sharaa Hold Diplomatic Talks

Lavrov revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had recently spoken with Syrian President Ahmed Sharaa by phone. “President Putin sent a message following their call in March, outlining our vision for developing trade, economic, and other areas of cooperation under the new circumstances,” Lavrov said.

He also noted that a Russian official delegation visited Damascus in January, where they held talks with President Sharaa to discuss strengthening bilateral ties.

Ankara’s Role in Post-Assad Syria

Turkey has played a prominent role in Syria over the past decade, initially supporting the Syrian opposition against the regime of Bashar al-Assad. Following Assad's fall and reported flight to Russia, Ankara has shifted its focus to backing the new Syrian government through diplomatic and political channels.

Future of Russian Military Bases

While Russia maintains longstanding military bases at Hmeimim Air Base and Tartus Naval Base, the recent change in Syria’s leadership has raised questions about the future of these strategic sites. So far, both Moscow and Damascus have expressed a mutual interest in continuing military and economic cooperation, although the full scope of future agreements remains under negotiation.