Sergei Shoigu visited Syria and delivered a message from Vladimir Putin to Bashar Assad.

Fulfilling an assignment from President Vladimir Putin, on Tuesday, 19 of March, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, on a working visit to Syria, paid a visit to President Bashar Assad. During the meeting, Shoigu conveyed to Asad a message from Putin.

During the talks, the parties touched upon the problems of combating international terrorism in Syria, ensuring security in the region, and discussed the issues of the return of refugees and the provision of humanitarian assistance to Syrians.

During the talks, the Russian minister noted the successes achieved in the fight against the militants, preventing the spread of terrorists in Syria. The assistance rendered in this by Russia is noted. Shoigu also recalled that the success achieved in restoring a peaceful life does not suit everyone. The Minister stressed that “Western countries are trying to minimize any positive changes in Syria, and create obstacles to end the crisis”.

It was noted at the meeting that, according to a report that appeared in February, more than 1,6 million Syrians had returned to their homes.

Armed conflict in the country stretches from 2011 of the year. It involves Syrian government forces that are on the side of the president, moderate opposition and Islamist groups.