Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on 9/8 that an agreement has been reached with Russia regarding the Hmeymim air base and Tartus naval port. These key Russian military installations in Syria will be transformed into joint training and capacity building centers, aiming to serve the mutual interests of both nations.

The accord follows 18 months of negotiations, with the transition process expected to be completed within three months. During this period, civilian facilities at both sites will be transferred to Syrian control.

Tu-22M3 bomber at Hmeymim air base, Syria in 2/2022. *Photo: Russian Ministry of Defense*.

Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs views this agreement as opening a new phase in Damascus-Moscow relations. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani reportedly visited the two bases to inspect facilities covered by the historic memorandum.

Russian officials have not yet commented on the announcement.

Omar al-Hasri, head of the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that Syrian authorities are taking over Latakia International Airport, located near the Hmeymim base. Specialized teams are conducting technical and operational assessments to develop a plan for resuming airport operations.

The Hmeymim air base and Tartus naval port were originally leased by Russia for 49 years under a 2017 agreement with former President Bashar al-Assad's administration. The Russian military has since continuously upgraded Hmeymim, adding support facilities, hangars, extending runways, and expanding parking areas.

Assad's overthrow in 12/2024 cast uncertainty over the future of these bases. Despite this change, President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who previously led the HTS armed group, emphasized the "deep strategic interests" shared by Syria and Russia.

Location of Hmeymim air base and Tartus naval base. *Graphic: BBC*.

Syria has expressed willingness to cooperate with Russia. President Sharaa has met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow two times since taking power. During al-Sharaa's visit in January, President Putin stated the two countries "achieved much in restoring bilateral relations", praising Syrian efforts to restore territorial integrity.

While Sharaa "appreciated Russia's historical role in Syria and the region", the Syrian government has continuously requested Russia to extradite Assad, who is living in Moscow with his wife after his overthrow.

By Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP, RIA Novosti)