Marking the approaching first anniversary of Syria’s new Government, the UK used a statement at the UN Security Council to set out priorities for a more stable and prosperous Syria. The government communiqué, published on gov.uk, frames progress and next steps across security, political and economic tracks.
On security, the UK welcomed Syria’s continued work with international partners on identifying and planning the destruction of chemical weapons, and noted Damascus’s decision to join the Global Coalition Against Daesh. The statement presents both developments as foundations for longer‑term stability and counter‑terrorism cooperation.
The UK also acknowledged Syrian efforts to build constructive relationships with neighbours, including Israel and Lebanon. London describes regional engagement as complementary to domestic stabilisation, encouraging sustained diplomatic channels to reduce tensions and support cross‑border coordination.
Specific backing was given to initiatives by the United States, Jordan and Syria to stabilise southern Syria. The UK said it fully supports implementation of the agreed roadmap, signalling an interest in coordinated security arrangements, de‑escalation and practical steps to improve conditions along the southern corridor.
Political inclusion was described as essential. The UK said Syrians across the country, in all their diversity, must be part of the transition, and that final appointments to the People’s Assembly should be fully representative of Syria’s communities. The statement also called for swift implementation of the 10 March agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Damascus government.
Economic recovery featured prominently. Citing the Security Council’s decision earlier this month to delist President Al Sharaa and Interior Minister Al Khattab from the 1267 counter‑terrorism sanctions regime, the UK argued that space is opening for reconstruction and recovery. Delisting under a UN regime, however, does not in itself alter domestic sanctions maintained by individual states, so compliance checks remain central for any prospective engagement.
The UK linked this to bilateral engagement, pointing to last week’s visit of the Syrian Foreign Minister to London as evidence of intent to rebuild Syria’s economy and create conditions for trade and investment. For firms and investors, the practical message is caution: track UN listings updates alongside UK and allied measures, and ensure any activity aligns with humanitarian exemptions and licensing requirements.
On humanitarian and development support, the UK said it is working with the Syrian Government, the United Nations and international donors in Damascus to strengthen programmes. Referencing remarks by Ms Doughten during the meeting, London acknowledged that significant needs persist and that assistance must underpin recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Looking ahead, the UK emphasised that Syria’s transition should remain Syrian‑led and Syrian‑owned, with external partners providing structured support. It said it looks forward to the UN Secretary‑General’s strategic recommendations on how the system can best assist Syria’s path to greater stability and prosperity.
Taken together, the statement signals encouragement of regional diplomacy and selective sanctions relief, paired with continued expectations on inclusive governance and security cooperation. For policymakers, donors and compliance teams, the operational tasks are to monitor sanctions updates, assess the representativeness of political appointments, and align programming with any emerging southern Syria roadmap.