The UK announced the restoration of diplomatic relations with Syria, marking the first visit by a British minister to Damascus in 14 years.

Britain has announced that it is resuming diplomatic relations with Syria, severed for more than a decade, as Foreign Secretary David Lammy visits Damascus. The decision comes as the Syrian authorities try to rebuild the country affected by a 13-year conflict. Lammy stressed the importance of a stable Syria to curb illegal migration and ensure the destruction of chemical weapons. The UK is pledging 129 million dollars for humanitarian assistance and reconstruction as other Western countries resume relations with the new Syrian government.