DAMASCUS, July 22 -- Syrian Culture Minister Lubanah Mshaweh and Russian Ambassador Alexander Yefimov met on Monday to discuss the ongoing project to rebuild the war-damaged Arch of Triumph in Palmyra, according to state news agency SANA.

Mshaweh stressed the project's importance for both Syria and Russia, urging swift progress and praising the existing scientific and technical cooperation between the two countries.

Yefimov echoed the significance of the project, highlighting its cultural and political value. He emphasized Russia's commitment to preserving the historical landmark, pledging to utilize the latest methods and scientific approaches for its restoration.

Both officials agreed on a joint meeting with Syrian and Russian archeological experts to determine the work methodology and timeline for the next phase of the project.

The Arch of Triumph, an ancient Roman structure dating back to the third century AD, was built to honor Emperor Septimius Severus' victories. It suffered severe damage during the Islamic State's seizure of Palmyra in 2015.

  - Xinhua