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Foreign Secretary’s visit to Syria
10 July 2025
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
At a Glance
Issue Summary
David Lammy updates the House on his recent visit to Syria, marking the UK's renewed diplomatic engagement with the country.
Action Requested
The UK is committing £94.5 million in humanitarian aid and £2 million for chemical weapons destruction, lifting certain sanctions, and establishing a UK-Syria Business Council.
Key Facts
- This was the first visit by a UK Minister to Syria in over 14 years.
- Assad's regime ended after 14 years of civil war.
- Over 90% of the Syrian population is living in poverty.
- The UK committed an additional £2 million to support OPCW's chemical weapons destruction work.
- A further £94.5 million was announced for urgent humanitarian aid and Syria’s recovery.
- Sanctions were lifted on key sectors, including asset freezes on entities like the Central Bank of Syria.
- Foreign Minister al-Shaibani committed to co-operating fully with OPCW.
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