DAMASCUS, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- A Syrian diplomatic source on Saturday dismissed reports that Syria was sending troops to Yemen, saying its current military cooperation with Saudi Arabia focuses on training, military advice and the exchange of expertise.
The source told Syria's state news agency SANA that a recent agreement with Saudi Arabia aims to train Syrian forces and build their capabilities. Saudi delegations are expected to begin coordination visits to Syria in December, the source said.
The cooperation could eventually lead to a mutual defense agreement or to Syria joining the Mecca defense pact, depending on the two countries' shared interests, the source noted.
The source added that reports of Syrian troops being sent to Yemen at this stage were baseless, saying that Syria's priorities were strengthening internal security, rebuilding the country and supporting economic recovery.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the two countries' defense authorities signed a cooperation agreement in Riyadh on Wednesday during Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa's visit.
The announcement comes amid media reports that Syrian troops were expected to deploy to Saudi Arabia and Yemen, with some reportedly already stationed on both countries. ■
