DAMASCUS — Syria and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding establishing a new framework for Russia’s presence at the Hmeimim airbase and Tartus naval facility.
The agreement was announced Sunday by Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates through the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), following about 18 months of negotiations between the two sides.
Civilian Facilities to Be Transferred to Syria
Under the memorandum, Syria will take over civilian facilities associated with the Russian installations.
The transfer includes Hmeimim Airport and the fourth commercial berth at the port of Tartus, along with associated warehouses and facilities. These sites will be gradually integrated into Syria’s civilian administration.
Syria’s General Authority for Ports and Customs will assume control of the commercial facilities at Tartus that were previously operated by Russia.
Military Facilities to Become Joint Training Centers
The agreement also changes the planned role of the military installations at Hmeimim and Tartus.
The two sides have agreed to transform the facilities into joint training and qualification centers under new arrangements intended to preserve the interests of both countries through cooperation, development and rehabilitation.
The memorandum sets a maximum period of three months to complete the transition. The new arrangements will take effect after this period.
Agreement Follows Changes in Syria
The negotiations began after the ousting of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, when the future of Russia’s military presence in Syria became a subject of discussions between Moscow and the new Syrian authorities.
Hmeimim, near Latakia, and the Tartus naval facility have been Russia’s main military installations in Syria.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry described the memorandum as the most significant development since negotiations began approximately 18 months ago, saying it establishes the framework for the next stage of Syrian-Russian relations.
Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited the facilities covered by the agreement on Sunday to inspect the sites and installations, according to SANA.
——— End of Article ———
