05.07.2025 22:01
The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy established ministerial-level contact with Syria after a 14-year hiatus. Lammy, who traveled to Damascus, met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara. During the meeting, it was decided to take new steps to strengthen bilateral relations.
The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara in Damascus. This was the first ministerial visit to Damascus from the UK in 14 years.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy arrived in the Syrian capital, Damascus. Minister Lammy was received by Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara at the People's Palace. The meeting addressed regional and international developments, as well as ways to enhance bilateral relations and cooperation.
In a social media post, UK Foreign Secretary Lammy stated, "I welcomed the progress made in Syria, emphasizing the need for an inclusive and representative political transition. The UK is ready to support a new Syrian government."
FIRST VISIT IN 14 YEARS
In a statement from the UK Foreign Office, it was noted that this was the first visit by a British minister to Syria in 14 years. It was reported that the UK has re-established diplomatic relations with Syria.
The UK announced that it would provide £94.5 million for improvement, education, and humanitarian aid, and £2 million for the destruction of chemical weapons.
WHAT HAPPENED?
On the other hand, the UK government lifted sanctions on some Syrian organizations, including government departments and media outlets, in April to assist in the reconstruction of the country following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December. Weeks ago, it also removed 24 Syrian companies, mostly banks and oil companies, from the sanctions list.
The new Syrian administration is trying to rebuild the country's collapsed economy and infrastructure after a civil war that lasted nearly 14 years and resulted in the deaths of half a million people.