Russia's Lavrov: Syrian Authorities Facing Challenges, National Dialogue Progressing Slowly

Asharq Al-Awsat

05-02-2025

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indirectly criticized Syria's new authorities, stating that they have failed to initiate meaningful internal dialogue among various factions.
He also warned against Western efforts to sideline Russia, China and Iran, stressing that coordinated international efforts are essential to advancing Syria's national reconciliation.
Speaking at the 14th Middle East Conference on the sidelines of Valdai International Discussion Club, Lavrov's remarks carried unprecedented undertones, particularly given Russia's recent emphasis on strengthening Syrian-Russian dialogue and holding new rounds of negotiations to shape future relations.
His assessment of the situation in Syria was striking, especially as he avoided referring to Ahmed Al-Sharaa as 'president', instead saying 'the authorities represented by Sharaa.'
Lavrov noted that these authorities are facing significant challenges, adding that dialogue and mutual understanding within the country have not progressed well.
When asked about his evaluation of the current situation in Syria, Lavrov responded: 'We can certainly discuss this in more detail later, but there are serious problems, including with the authorities currently represented by Ahmed Al-Sharaa. The groups that were part of this structure have not engaged in successful dialogue or understanding following the change in power.'
He emphasized the need for a pragmatic and constructive approach, urging all stakeholders to focus on the future of the Syrian people rather than pursuing geopolitical gains. A unified effort by all external players is necessary to advance the national dialogue.
Lavrov also warned of Western attempts to marginalize Russia, China and Iran in Syria, pushing them into secondary roles in the settlement process.
'Efforts to exclude Russia, China, and Iran from external support for Syria's resolution are not driven by goodwill, but rather expose Western plans to weaken their geopolitical rivals,' he stated.
His comments came just a day after the Kremlin reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue with Syria's new authorities, confirming that upcoming rounds of talks would address all outstanding issues, including Russia's military presence at the Hmeimim Air Base and Tartus Naval Base.
Russia's intervention in the civil war in Syria and its support to ousted President Bashar al-Assad's regime against opposition factions tipped the conflict in his favor.
It granted Assad and his family asylum after Sharaa's opposition fighters took control of Damascus following a lightning and largely unopposed advance in December.
Last week, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who also serves as Presidential Envoy to the Middle East and North Africa, led a high-level delegation to Syria, including officials from Russia's Defense and Foreign Ministries, as well as representatives from its economic sector.
The meetings resulted in agreements to continue discussions between Damascus and Moscow. Russian sources viewed the visit as a breakthrough in easing tensions between the two sides and establishing priorities for future negotiations.