MOSCOW (AP) – Russian news agencies are reporting that Moscow has promised to deliver a batch of fighter jets to Lebanon.

ITAR-Tass and Interfax have quoted Lebanese Defense Minister Elias Murr as saying that Russia has agreed to supply his country with 10 MiG-29 fighter jets.

The ITAR-Tass said the planes will be provided as aid. Murr spoke during Tuesday’s talks in Moscow with Russian Defense Minister Anatoly Serdyukov.

Russia has sought to expand its clout in the Middle East and hopes to host a Mideast peace conference next year. It is a member of the so-called Quartet of Mideast peacemakers, which also includes the United States, the European Union and the United Nations.