In a significant move to help the people of Syria rebuild their country and economy after the fall of Assad, the UK government has updated its Syria sanctions regulations. These amendments are designed to bolster Syria’s transition to a more stable and prosperous state while ensuring the UK can continue to hold Assad and his associates accountable for human rights violations.
The updates, which were announced on 24th April, focus on supporting Syria’s financial and energy sectors, removing restrictions on key industries, and facilitating essential investment in the country’s energy infrastructure. This step is a key part of the UK’s broader strategy to promote long-term stability in Syria, which is essential not only for the region but for UK security as well.
The UK’s sanctions amendments will lift restrictions on 12 Syrian entities, including major organisations such as the Syrian Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, and various media companies. While the government is working to promote Syria’s reconstruction, it remains committed to enforcing sanctions on individuals and entities involved in the illicit trade of captagon or responsible for actions that continue to harm the Syrian people.
“The Syrian people deserve the opportunity to rebuild their country and economy, and a stable Syria is in the UK’s national interest. That’s why I’m pleased that today the UK has amended its Syria sanctions and lifted sanctions on 12 entities to support them to do just that,” said Hamish Falconer, Minister for the Middle East.
This move follows the UK’s decision earlier this year to lift asset freezes on 24 Syrian entities, including the Central Bank of Syria, Syrian Arab Airlines, and energy companies. The UK government remains committed to working with international partners to ensure that Syria undergoes an inclusive political transition, protects human rights, and ensures unfettered humanitarian access. The UK is also focused on the safe destruction of chemical weapons stockpiles and addressing the threats posed by terrorism and extremism.
In addition to these policy changes, the UK has pledged £160 million for humanitarian aid in 2025 to further support Syria’s recovery and stability.
The UK’s Plan for Change emphasises building a secure, stable future for Syria and the wider region, while continuing to hold the Assad regime accountable for its past actions.
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