The UK has re-established diplomatic relations with Syria, highlighting that a stable Syria aligns with British interests, as stated by Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his recent visit to Damascus.

This diplomatic move follows the collapse of President Bashar Assad's regime in December 2024, after a rebellion led by the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham forced him to flee after 24 years in power.

Syria's new leadership, under President al-Sharaa, is now facing significant challenges in rebuilding the economy and infrastructure after nearly 14 years of civil war that resulted in approximately half a million deaths.

The West has been gradually resetting its policy towards Syria since the fall of Assad, with other Western countries also restoring relations with the new Syrian government.

In support of Syria's recovery, the UK government has announced a new funding package of £94.5 million ($129 million) for humanitarian aid, recovery efforts, and the removal of chemical weapons from the Assad era.

In a related development, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to lift many American economic sanctions on Syria, aiding its integration into the international financial system.

During his discussions in Damascus, Lammy and the Syrian president addressed topics of cooperation and regional developments in the Middle East.

Additionally, Lammy met Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Beirut to discuss security along the Lebanon-Israel border, with plans to increase Lebanese troops in the area.

Al-Sharaa has been actively engaging with oil-rich regional nations and made a significant visit to France in May 2025, marking his first trip to the European Union.

The UK plans to provide additional humanitarian aid to support reconstruction efforts in Syria, with UN estimates suggesting the cost of rebuilding the country could exceed $400 billion.

In April 2025, the British government also removed sanctions against numerous Syrian businesses, primarily banks and oil companies.

Britain's foreign office stated that the visit reflects London's commitment to support Syria's economic rebuilding, political transition, and justice for victims of Assad's regime.