The UK has re-established diplomatic ties with Syria, David Lammy has mentioned, as he made the primary go to to the nation by a British minister for 14 years.
The international secretary visited Damascus and met with interim president Ahmed al Sharaa, additionally the chief of the insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and international minister Asaad al Shaibani.
It marks the most recent diplomatic transfer since Bashar al Assad’s regime was toppled by insurgent teams led by HTS in December.
In a press release, Mr Lammy mentioned a “secure Syria is within the UK’s pursuits” and added: “I’ve seen first-hand the exceptional progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their nation.
“After over a decade of battle, there’s renewed hope for the Syrian folks.
“The UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations as a result of it’s in our pursuits to help the brand new authorities to ship their dedication to construct a secure, safer and affluent future for all Syrians.”
International Secretary David Lammy with Syria’s interim president Ahmed al Sharaa in Damascus. Pic: X / @DavidLammy
The International, Commonwealth and Improvement Workplace has additionally introduced a £94.5m help package deal for pressing humanitarian assist and to help the nation’s long-term restoration, after a variety of British sanctions in opposition to the nation had been lifted in April.
Whereas HTS remains to be categorised as a proscribed terror group, Sir Keir Starmer mentioned final yr that it could be removed from the listing.
The Syrian president’s workplace additionally mentioned on Saturday that the president and Mr Lammy mentioned co-operation, in addition to the most recent developments within the Center East.
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Since Assad fled Syria in December, a transitional government headed by Mr al Sharaa was introduced in March and a variety of western international locations have restored ties.
In Could, US President Donald Trump mentioned america would lift long-standing sanctions on Syria and normalise relations throughout a speech on the US-Saudi funding convention.
From Could: Trump says US will finish sanctions for Syria
He mentioned he needed to present the nation “an opportunity at peace” and added: “There’s a new authorities that can hopefully succeed.
“I say good luck, Syria. Present us one thing particular.”
