The UK has re-established diplomatic ties with Syria, David Lammy has stated, 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 stated a “stable Syria is in the UK’s interests” and added: “I’ve seen first-hand the remarkable progress Syrians have made in rebuilding their lives and their country.
“After over a decade of battle, there may be renewed hope for the Syrian folks.
“The UK is re-establishing diplomatic relations because 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.”
Picture:
Overseas Secretary David Lammy with Syria’s interim president Ahmed al Sharaa in Damascus. Pic: X / @DavidLammy
The Overseas, Commonwealth and Growth Workplace has additionally introduced a £94.5m help package deal for pressing humanitarian help and to help the nation’s long-term restoration, after numerous British sanctions in opposition to the nation had been lifted in April.
Whereas HTS continues to be categorised as a proscribed terror group, Sir Keir Starmer stated final yr that it may very well be faraway from the listing.
The Syrian president’s workplace additionally stated 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 authorities headed by Mr al Sharaa was introduced in March and numerous western international locations have restored ties.
In Could, US President Donald Trump stated the US would carry long-standing sanctions on Syria and normalise relations throughout a speech on the US-Saudi funding convention.
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From Could: Trump says US will finish sanctions for Syria
He stated he wished to present the nation “a chance at peace” and added: “There is a new government that will hopefully succeed.
“I say good luck, Syria. Present us one thing particular.”
