UK Foreign Secretary calls for international support for Syria’s democratic transition
Britain's Foreign Secretary David Lammy delivers a speech on the FCDO's priorities and the Government's Plan for Change, in London on January 9, 2025. (AFP Photo)
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has urged the international community to stand with the Syrian people in their pursuit of a democratic future.
Lammy is set to visit Saudi Arabia to participate in a meeting focused on Syria, the U.K. Foreign Office announced.
Focus on Syria’s democratic transition
The discussions in Saudi Arabia will center on steps to support a transitional government in Syria, according to a Foreign Office statement. Mechanisms to ensure accountability for crimes committed during the regime of former leader Bashar al-Assad will also be addressed.
The U.K. plans to offer expertise in coordinating humanitarian aid and expressed concerns about ongoing conflicts in certain regions of Syria.
Lammy emphasized the U.K.’s commitment to a political transition process led by Syrians toward a government that represents all citizens.
Commitment to Syrian civilians
“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,” Lammy said in the statement.
He noted that the U.K. is collaborating with international partners to ensure the protection of civilians and to provide aid and security within Syria and the wider region. “Syrians deserve a bright and prosperous future—we are here today to support that,” he added.
Meetings with global leaders
Lammy’s visit to Saudi Arabia will include meetings with his counterparts from Europe, the Arab world, and Saudi Arabia.
He also participated in a Syria-focused meeting in Rome on Thursday alongside foreign ministers from the U.S., France, Germany and Italy.
Post-Assad Syria
Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who led the country for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia last month after anti-regime groups took control of Damascus on Dec. 8, effectively ending the Baath Party’s rule, which began in 1963.
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