The UK has officially restored diplomatic relations with Syria, marking a major shift in foreign policy after more than a decade of strained ties. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the move during a historic visit to Damascus, making him the first British minister to visit Syria in 14 years.
During the visit, Lammy met with Syria’s interim president Ahmed al Sharaa, who also leads the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani. This meeting marks a significant milestone following the toppling of Bashar al Assad’s regime by rebel forces led by HTS in December.
Lammy stated that a “stable Syria is in the UK’s interests,” adding, “I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their country. After years of conflict, there is new hope for the Syrian people.”
UK Announces Major Aid Package for Syria
In line with the diplomatic breakthrough, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office announced a £94.5 million aid package. This funding will provide urgent humanitarian relief and support Syria’s long-term reconstruction efforts. The aid announcement follows the lifting of several British sanctions on Syria in April.
Lammy emphasized that re-establishing diplomatic relations aims to support Syria’s transitional government in creating a “stable, secure, and prosperous future for all Syrians.”
Terror Designation Under Review
Despite HTS still being classified as a proscribed terrorist group, UK officials have hinted at a potential review. Last year, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer suggested that HTS could be removed from the terror list under certain conditions.
The Syrian presidency confirmed that Lammy’s talks also covered regional cooperation and the latest political developments in the Middle East.
Growing International Support for Syria’s New Government
Following the ousting of Bashar al Assad in December, Syria’s transitional government led by Ahmed al Sharaa has gained growing international recognition. In May, former US President Donald Trump announced plans to lift long-standing US sanctions on Syria and normalize relations during a speech at the US-Saudi investment summit.
Trump declared, “There is a new government that will hopefully succeed. I say good luck, Syria. Show us something special.”
