The United Kingdom has re-established diplomatic relations with Syria for the first time in over a decade, Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed on Sunday during a landmark visit to the Syrian capital, Damascus.
Marking the first visit by a British minister to Syria in 14 years, Mr Lammy described the development as a “renewed hope for the Syrian people” and pledged Britain’s support for rebuilding the war-torn country.
“It is in our interests to support the new government to deliver their commitment to build a stable, more secure and prosperous future for all Syrians,” Mr Lammy said in an official statement.
The visit comes in the wake of major political upheaval in Syria, following the ousting of long-time president Bashar al-Assad in December by insurgent forces led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Assad’s removal ended over 13 years of civil war that devastated the nation and displaced millions.
As part of Britain’s renewed diplomatic engagement, Mr Lammy announced a £94.5 million aid package aimed at addressing urgent humanitarian needs, aiding Syria’s long-term recovery, and supporting neighbouring countries hosting Syrian refugees.
What led to the UK’s move
The UK’s move follows a broader shift in Western policy towards Syria. Just days prior, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order terminating a longstanding sanctions programme against Syria, effectively re-opening the country to the global financial system and laying the groundwork for reconstruction efforts.
In April, the UK eased its own sanctions, unfreezing assets of Syria’s central bank and 23 other institutions, including major banks and oil companies, to incentivise foreign investment. However, targeted sanctions on individuals linked to the former Assad regime remain in place.
Following high-level meetings with his Syrian counterpart, Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani, and newly-installed President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Mr Lammy stressed the UK’s continued commitment to supporting an “inclusive and representative political transition” in Syria.
He also highlighted the potential regional and global benefits of a stable Syria, including reduced irregular migration, the dismantling of chemical weapons stockpiles, and stronger efforts to combat terrorism.
Mr Lammy is set to continue his regional tour with a visit to Kuwait, where discussions will centre on enhancing regional security and deepening bilateral ties. While there, he is expected to unveil a new partnership with the Gulf state focused on addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
The Foreign Office has yet to confirm whether a full reopening of the British Embassy in Damascus is forthcoming, but officials have hinted at a gradual expansion of diplomatic operations in the region.
