Russia's Putin meets Syrian foreign minister in Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Syria's foreign minister Asaad al-Shibani in Moscow, the first visit by a top official from Syria's new government.

Lavrov said Moscow would like Syria's new President Ahmed al-Sharaa to attend a summit between Russia and Arab League member states in Moscow in October. "Of course, we hope that President al-Sharaa will be able to take part in the first Russia-Arab League summit, which is scheduled for October 15," Lavrov said.

Moscow has attempted to preserve ties with Syria's new authorities, including offering Damascus diplomatic support over Israeli strikes on Syrian territory.

Putin received Shibani and his accompanying delegation at the Kremlin, Syria's state news agency SANA reported without providing further details on the meeting.

At a joint news conference, Shibani said his trip to Moscow was intended "to start a necessary discussion ... based on the lessons of the past, to formulate the future".

He said he had agreed with Lavrov on establishing two committees tasked with re-evaluating past agreements between Syria and Russia.

"There are many opportunities for a united strong Syria, we hope Russia stands with us on this pathway," Shibani said.

Lavrov thanked Syrian authorities for ensuring the security of two Russian bases in the country, where Moscow continues to maintain a presence, as well as backing the removal of sanctions on Syria.