From 27 to 29 May 1974. at the invitation of the leadership of the Syrian Arab Republic. A. A. Gromyko. Foreign Minister of the USSR and member of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. paid an official visit of friendship to Damascus. “The visit took place in an atmosphere of warmth and cordiality reflecting the friendly relations between the two peoples and countries. “Mr. Gromyko was received by and had talks with President Al-assad. the General Secretary of the Ba’ath Arab Socialist party. and also with Mr. Mahmoud Ayoubi. the Chairman of the Council of Ministers. and Mr, Abdul Halim Khaddam. the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Vice Chairman of the Council of Ministers.
“In the course of the visit, talks were held and attention was concentrated on the efforts which were being made to achieve a just solution of the Middle East problem and of the question of troop disengagement on the Syrian front, as a first step and a constituent element in a comprehensive solution of this problem.
“As a result of the talks, the convergence of the positions of the two sides on all these questions was once again confirmed. The tow sides once again confirmed that a just solution of the Middle East problem could be achieved only on the basis of total liberation by Israel of all the occupied Arab territories and guarantees for the lawful national rights of the Arab people of Palestine. “The two sides consider that. immediately after [he achievement of an Agreement on troop disengagement on the Syrian front and the implementation of its provisions, appropriate measures must be taken without delay to achieve an all-embracing and just settlement which will ensure the implementation of the relevant decisions of the United Nations. “The Syrian Arab Republic confirmed its position with regard to the fact that the Soviet Union should take part in all stages and in alI aspects of a settlement designed to establish a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. “The Soviet Union once again confirmed its unchanging policy of principle involving comprehensive support to the Syrian Arab Republic in its struggle for the elimination of the consequences of Israeli aggression.
The Soviet Union and the Syrian Arab Republic confirm the strength of the relations between them and the strength of the friendship between the peoples of the two countries. and declare that they will not permit anyone to disrupt these relations and this friendship which are the result of great and lengthy efforts on the part of both sides.”