Trade between Russia and Syria is expected to proliferate this year, with the former expected to support the company develop new oil and gas facilities, electrical grids and other primary infrastructure.

According to the Voice of Russia, relations between the two countries will move from strength to strength following this month's state visit from Russian president Dmitry Medvedev to Damsascus.

Speaking to the news provider, Professor Vladimir Isayev of the Institute of Oriental Studies said that while training partnerships will be key to the development of Syria's infrastructure, Russia can expect to find many skilled workers ready to take on new jobs.

"Many Syrians have a good command of Russian for they had graduated from universities in the Soviet Union. Moreover, Russian is said to be one of the most popular foreign languages in Syria," he said.

During his visit to the country earlier this week, Mr Medvedev said Russian oil and gas firms are taking an increasing interest in working on Syrian exploration and production projects.

Getenergy for Russia & CIS, 19th – 20th May 2010 - Moscow