The United Kingdom reinstated full diplomatic relations with Syria on 5 July after a 14-year hiatus, as Foreign Secretary David Lammy met in Damascus with interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani. Lammy is the first British cabinet minister to visit the country since ties were severed in 2011 at the onset of Syria’s civil conflict. London said the visit underlines support for the new Syrian government that took power following Bashar al-Assad’s ouster eight months ago. The Foreign Office announced an additional £94.5 million (about US$129 million) in humanitarian and early-recovery assistance for Syria and neighbouring states hosting refugees, and cited the need for an “inclusive and representative political transition.” Both sides agreed to work toward reopening the Syrian embassy in London and issued a reciprocal invitation for Shaibani to visit the UK. The two governments also outlined plans for a bilateral economic council intended to deepen trade and investment as reconstruction accelerates. Britain’s move follows its April easing of sanctions on Syrian entities and comes days after the United States lifted many of its own restrictions. By restoring diplomatic channels, London aims to curb irregular migration, help dismantle remaining chemical-weapons stockpiles and counter extremist groups while positioning UK firms for participation in Syria’s rebuilding efforts.