International Coordination on Syria
The Foreign Secretary’s visit to Saudi Arabia is part of a broader effort to drive forward international cooperation on Syria. On Sunday, January 12, 2025, Lammy will meet with Arab and international partners to discuss crucial steps in supporting the Syrian people.
These discussions follow his recent meeting with foreign ministers from France, Germany, Italy, the US, and the EU in Rome, where the need for an inclusive, Syrian-led political transition was stressed.
Focus on Transitional Government and Humanitarian Aid
The meetings in Riyadh will focus on supporting the interim Syrian authorities and mechanisms to hold the Assad regime accountable for war crimes.
The UK will offer expertise on humanitarian coordination and reiterate concerns about ongoing hostilities in North East Syria. Lammy will also meet one-on-one with Saudi Foreign Minister His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan and other Arab and European Foreign Ministers to deepen defence and security ties and boost growth opportunities.
Broader Implications for Regional Stability
The UK’s commitment to Syria’s stability is crucial for regional security. The ongoing conflicts between Turkish-backed forces and Kurdish militias in North East Syria pose significant risks, including the potential resurgence of ISIS extremists and increased refugee flows into Turkey and Europe.
Ensuring stability in Syria is a primary interest for the UK and its international partners.
Some Statistics
- The UK has provided over £60 million in international aid to support vulnerable Syrians.
- The meetings include representatives from Bahrain, Egypt, France, Germany, Iraq, Italy, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Turkiye, UAE, USA, EU, League of Arab States, and UN.
- The UK aims to increase investment and deepen defence and security ties with Saudi Arabia.
Leadership Response
The international community must come together to stand behind the people of Syria as they build a democratic future and a diverse and modern country.
David Lammy, Foreign Secretary at the UK Government.
The Foreign Secretary’s statement underscores the UK’s commitment to supporting the Syrian people in their quest for a peaceful and democratic future. This commitment is aligned with the UK’s broader strategy of strengthening international partnerships and ensuring regional stability.
Progress and Targets
- The UK remains committed to a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition process.
- The meetings aim to achieve action on inclusive governance, facilitation of humanitarian aid, and cooperation on chemical weapons and countering the threat posed by Daesh.
- A potential official visit to Damascus by the Foreign Secretary is contingent on achieving a period of stability in Syria.
Local and Regional Impact
The discussions in Riyadh will have significant implications for the region. The focus on stopping the fighting in North East Syria and supporting a transitional government will directly impact the lives of Syrians and the stability of neighboring countries.
The UK’s efforts to coordinate with Arab states and other international partners reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the complex challenges facing Syria.
Immediate Implications
The immediate outcome of these meetings will be a clearer path forward for international support to Syria. The emphasis on humanitarian aid, accountability, and inclusive governance sets a robust framework for rebuilding the country.
Broader Significance
The UK’s involvement in these meetings highlights the global community’s recognition of the critical need for stability in Syria. As the international community comes together to support the Syrian people, it marks a significant step towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for the region.
