Russia parliament ratifies plans to expand Tartus naval base in Syria

Russia yesterday ratified a draft agreement signed with the Syrian regime on expanding the Russian naval base in the port city of Tartus, the TASS news agency reported.

The agreement will be in force for 49 years and will be automatically extended for another 25 years if neither party submit written notice one year prior to the expiry of its term.

Under the terms of the agreement, Russia has the right to “deploy up to 11 navy warships at the same time and send enough troops to protect the base”.

The base will have full immunity from any Syrian civil, administrative or legal jurisdiction. Moreover, the Russian movable and immovable property will also enjoy full immunity from any inspection, seizures or other measures.

Under the agreement, naval personnel, as well as their relatives will enjoy full immunity and privileges similar to those granted to diplomats.

Syria will protect the naval facility while Russia will secure maritime borders and missile security.

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Chairman of the Russian State Duma Committee for Foreign Affairs, Leonid Slutsky, said in a statement that “the ratification of the agreement is of strategic importance”.

“The presence of a Russian naval facility on Syria’s territory is totally in line with the objectives of ensuring regional peace and stability, it is purely defensive and is not aimed at other countries,” he added.

Meanwhile, Russian Deputy Defence Minister, Nikolay Pankov said expanding the Russian naval facility in Tartus will strengthen the Russian fleet in the Mediterranean Sea.