Tartus Military Port Contract between Russia and the Syrian Government
This document, written in Russian, contains all the clauses of the Tartus Military Port agreement between Russia and the Syrian government, signed 18 January 2017.
- Article 25 states that the agreement has a duration of 49 years, automatically extending for another 25 years unless either party objects.
- Article 2 stipulates the transfer of Syrian territories and areas (referenced in Annexes 1 and 2 of the agreement) to the Russian side without compensation until the agreement's expiration. This includes the coastal area, the water area in the port of Tartus, and the front area with its maritime berths and floating facilities.
- Article 4 mentions that the authorized entities from both sides are the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Syrian Ministry of Defense.
- Article 5 states that a maximum of eleven Russian ships will be allowed in the port at one time, including nuclear-powered vessels.
- Article 7 allows the Russian side to carry out repairs, reconstruction, and establish communication networks and more in the port as they wish. It also states that any equipment, supplies, and furniture brought by Russia remain their private property and will be transported back to Russia at the end of the agreement.
- Article 8 grants Russia the right to transfer weapons, as well as military and civilian personnel with their families, to the port without paying fees to Syrian authorities. These individuals are not subject to inspection or examination of their belongings or anything they bring with them.
- Article 9 confirms the immunity of the Russian presence in the port, where Syrians or Syrian authorities are not allowed entry to the port area without the approval of the Russian military commander. The port is exempt from Syrian laws, including security, legal, and customs regulations. Also, Syria is denied access to port documents and archives. Russian military personnel and their families are granted immunity and preferential treatment. They are not subject to any form of search, detention, or arrest by Syrian authorities. Similarly, Russian warships and all other military equipment, including naval and air assets, are exempt from Syrian inspection or control.
- Article 10 deals with security and weapon use. The Syrian side provides land protection outside the facility, while the Russian side is responsible for port security at sea. Russians are allowed to carry and use weapons within the port, but coordination with the Syrian side is required outside. However, the Russian side can establish protection and inspection points outside the port on land. Lastly, the Syrian side is allowed entry to the port with prior permission from the Russian authority after a 24-hour notice.
- Article 11 grants Russia the right to utilize its satellite communications, aerospace forces, and even jamming systems without notifying the Syrian side ahead of time.
- Article 12 prevents Syria from lodging any complaints or accusations against Russia regarding activities, facilities, personnel, or crews within the port. Furthermore, Syria assumes responsibility for settling any claims or liabilities from third parties arising from breaches, violations, or damages related to the port or its personnel.
- Article 13 exempts all Russian personnel from taxes and fees.
- Article 14 mandates that Syria supply the port with fuel, electricity, potable water, telephone services, and other necessities based on a separate commercial agreement. Medical services will be governed by a dedicated agreement between the two parties.
- Article 20 states that vehicles belonging to Russia have the right to move freely within Syrian territory. The Syrian side will issue license plates for these vehicles outside the port area to ensure their free movement in Syria, exempted from fees.