Syria and Russia have reached an agreement on the future of Russia’s military presence at Hmeimim and Tartous following 18 months of negotiations, Syria’s Foreign Ministry announced.

Under the memorandum of understanding, Syria will begin restructuring Russia’s presence along the Syrian coast and assume control of civilian facilities, including at Hmeimim Airport and the fourth commercial pier at Tartous Port. Those facilities are expected to be gradually integrated into civilian administration.

Russian military bases and facilities will meanwhile be transformed into joint training and qualification centers, with their functions redefined under a new framework intended to preserve the interests of both countries.

The transition is expected to be completed within three months, after which the new arrangements governing the Russian presence will take effect.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)