Foreign Secretary David Lammy has become the first UK minister to visit Syria since the uprising that led to the country's civil war began 14 years ago.Lammy met Syria's interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa eight months after the collapse of the Assad regime and as the new Islamic-led government continues to establish control within the country.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has met Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Damascus to discuss boosting cooperation.

Britain said on Saturday it was reestablishing diplomatic relations with Syria after the country's years-long civil war, as foreign minister David Lammy visited its capital Damascus, pledging 94.5 million pounds ($129 million) in support.