Russia, Turkey, and Iran are the patrons of the Astana format, where representatives of the Syrian government and opposition negotiate the country's future. All three states have their own interests in Syria, with Russia maintaining important military bases there.
Al-Assad's visit to Moscow comes amid renewed fighting in Syria's northwestern province of Idlib, where the Syrian army has launched an offensive against rebels. The Syrian army, backed by Russian air power, has made significant gains in Idlib in recent weeks, sparking concern among Turkey and Western powers.
The UN estimates that over 500,000 people have died in the Syrian conflict, with millions more displaced. The Syrian government has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including the use of chemical weapons against civilians.
Russia has faced international criticism for its support of the Syrian government, with Western powers accusing Russia of propping up a regime responsible for war crimes. Russia has denied the accusations, saying it is supporting the legitimate government of Syria against foreign-backed terrorists.
Al-Assad's visit to Moscow is seen as a sign of the close relationship between Russia and Syria. The two countries have signed multiple agreements in recent years, including a 49-year lease for the Russian military base in the Syrian port city of Tartus.
The visit also comes amid rising tensions between Russia and the West, with Russia's annexation of Crimea and its involvement in the conflict in eastern Ukraine leading to international sanctions. Russia has also been accused of interference in the 2016 US presidential election, with US intelligence agencies saying that Russia attempted to sway the election in favour of Donald Trump.
Despite these tensions, Russia has maintained its support for al-Assad's government in Syria, with Putin saying in 2015 that Russia's intervention in Syria was aimed at "supporting the legitimate government in the fight against terrorism."
Al-Assad's visit to Moscow is expected to strengthen the ties between the two countries and send a message to Western powers that Russia is a key player in the Middle East. It is also expected to focus on the ongoing conflict in Syria, with the two leaders discussing ways to end the fighting and promote peace in the region.
The Syrian conflict has become one of the most complex and protracted conflicts in recent history, with multiple actors involved and competing interests at play. The conflict has also had a significant humanitarian toll, with millions of Syrians displaced and in need of humanitarian assistance.
The UN and international organisations have been working to address the humanitarian crisis in Syria, but have faced significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict and the complexity of the situation.
Al-Assad's visit to Moscow is unlikely to lead to a breakthrough in the Syrian conflict, but it is expected to reaffirm the close ties between Russia and Syria and send a message to Western powers that Russia is a key player in the region.