Syrian President Salah meets Starmer on first UK visit after years of tension; immigration, border security on agenda

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sala arrived in London on Tuesday for his first official visit to the UK, marking a major step towards restoring ties between the two countries after years of tension.Prime Minister Keir Starmer greeted him at 10 Downing Street and the two leaders shook hands before the hour-long meeting.Sarah heads to London after a stop in Germany as part of a wider European tour aimed at rebuilding international partnerships.

Immigration, border security become important agenda

Immigration emerged as a key focus of the talks, with discussions focused on cooperation around returns, strengthening border security and combating people-smuggling networks.The Syrian leader also expressed a willingness to work with Britain on immigration priorities, including a possible deal on the repatriation of individuals without legal status.

Discuss anti-terrorism cooperation

Both sides reviewed ongoing counterterrorism efforts, including operations against extremist groups such as the Islamic State.Officials highlighted progress in UK-Syria cooperation in the fight against terrorism, as well as wider discussions on regional stability.

Economic ties, energy role become focus

The talks also focused on strengthening economic cooperation, with Syria positioning itself as a potential future energy partner for Europe.Leaders discussed reconstruction efforts and opportunities for British businesses to contribute to Syria’s economic transformation.The two sides also discussed ongoing tensions in the Middle East, stressing the need to avoid escalation and ensure stability in the region.

Visit after years of tension

The visit comes amid warming ties, which were severed during Bashar Assad’s regime in 2011 when Britain closed its embassy in Damascus in 2012 and Syria closed its embassy in London the following year.Contact has increased in recent years through high-level visits and measures to restore a diplomatic presence. After the fall of the Assad regime, relations between the two countries began to thaw, and in July 2025 they announced the formal restoration of diplomatic relations.