Pakistan, Oct. 15 -- Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Wednesday. Sharaa promised to respect all past agreements between Syria and Russia. This assurance suggests Moscow's military bases in Syria remain secure. The meeting marked Sharaa's first visit to Russia since coming to power last year. Both leaders discussed ways to renew and strengthen bilateral ties.

Sharaa spoke about shared interests and said Syria wants to redefine its relationship with Russia. Putin welcomed this approach and expressed readiness to build on "many useful beginnings." He also congratulated Sharaa on Syria's recent parliamentary elections. Putin said the elections would help unify Syrian society. He acknowle...