Russian President Vladimir Putin has submitted to the State Duma an agreement with Syria on expanding the Russian Navy’s base in Syria’s Tartus.
"The duration of the agreement is 49 years, it can be automatically prolonged for a period of 25 years in case none of the parties send a written notification to the other at least one year before a period expires concerning its intention to terminate the agreement," the document reads.
According to the agreement, Russia will use joint facilities free of charge.
"The naval base has full immunity from Syria’s civil and administrative jurisdiction. Its movable and immovable property is immune from search, seizure and other proceedings," TASS cited the document as saying.
In addition, the agreement stipulates that Russia will operate the naval base. "Russia has the right to send the necessary number of troops to maintain the naval facility," the document adds.
