Syria, Russia decided the fate of Russian military bases
The transition period will last no more than three months (photo: Getty Images)
Syria and Russia have signed a memorandum on reorganizing Russia's military presence in the country, according to SANA.
According to a statement from Syria's foreign ministry, the agreement resulted from negotiations lasting a year and a half, led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates. The signed document defines the future status of Russian facilities in Hmeimim and Tartous.
In particular, Syria will assume management of facilities designated for civilian use, including Hmeimim Airport and the fourth commercial berth at the port of Tartous. This will allow them to be gradually integrated into the country's civilian administration.
The sides also agreed to revise the role of facilities currently used for military purposes. Under the agreement, Russian military bases will be converted into joint training centers.
The document also sets a deadline for completing the transition period—no more than three months—after which the new rules will take effect.
Syria's foreign ministry called the agreement the most significant development since negotiations began about 18 months ago, emphasizing that it opens the way for a new stage in relations between Syria and Russia.
Other important details to know
As previously reported, on May 11, the Russian cargo ship Sparta arrived in Syria, accompanied by warships, for the first time since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. This was the first confirmation that Russia had resumed supplying the country with military materiel.
Reports also emerged in May that Russia had become Syria's main oil supplier. However, Reuters reported days ago that Syria is ready to sharply reduce its imports of Russian oil. Damascus may be considering the move as part of efforts to have sanctions against Syria lifted.
