Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in London on Tuesday for his first official visit to the UK, marking a significant step in the gradual restoration of ties between the two countries after years of strained relations.British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed him at 10 Downing Street, where the two leaders shook hands ahead of an hour-long meeting. Al-Sharaa’s trip to London comes after a stop in Germany, as part of a broader European tour aimed at rebuilding international partnerships.
Migration, border security high on agenda
Migration emerged as a key focus of the talks, with discussions centred on cooperation around returns, strengthening border security, and tackling people-smuggling networks.The Syrian leader also showed willingness to work with the UK on migration priorities, including potential agreements on returning individuals without legal status.
Counter-terror cooperation discussed
Both sides reviewed ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, including action against extremist groups such as ISIS.Officials highlighted progress in UK-Syria cooperation in tackling terrorism, alongside broader discussions on regional stability.
Economic ties, energy role in focus
Talks also focused on boosting economic cooperation, with Syria positioning itself as a potential energy partner for Europe in the future.The leaders discussed reconstruction efforts and opportunities for British businesses to contribute to Syria’s economic transition.Ongoing tensions in the Middle East were also discussed, with both sides stressing the need to avoid escalation and ensure stability in the region.
Visit comes after years of strain
The visit comes amid a gradual warming of ties that were severed in 2011 during the regime of Bashar al-Assad, when Britain closed its embassy in Damascus in 2012 and Syria shut its London mission the following year.Engagement has picked up in recent years through high-level visits and steps to restore diplomatic presence. Ties began to thaw after the fall of the Assad regime, with the formal resumption of diplomatic relations announced in July 2025.
