Russia says Syria base deal will strengthen bilateral ties

MOSCOW, Russia (MNTV) — Russia’s Foreign Ministry has described a new agreement with Syria on the future of Moscow’s military bases as a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations.

According to A News, the agreement was reached through a memorandum signed on Aug. 9 following 18 months of negotiations between the two countries over the status of Russian facilities at Hmeimim and Tartous.

Under the arrangement, the Syrian government will assume control of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim airport and the commercial section of Tartous port. These facilities are expected to be gradually incorporated into Syria’s civilian administration.

Military facilities at the two sites will be converted into joint training centers, with the transition scheduled to be completed within three months. 

A Syrian source familiar with the agreement told Reuters that Russian personnel would continue operating from the new training centers, although the number of troops has not been disclosed.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the memorandum would expand military cooperation and provide fresh momentum to broader relations between Moscow and Damascus, which it described as being rooted in a long history of partnership.

The agreement comes as both governments seek to establish a new framework for Russian military facilities in Syria following extensive negotiations over their future role.