Syria: League of Arab States

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office written question – answered on 1 June 2023.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of The Marquess of Lothian The Marquess of Lothian Conservative

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions, if any, they had with the Arab League prior to its decision to approve Syria’s readmission as a member on 7 May.

Photo of Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

Engaging Bashar al-Assad in the absence of any evidence that his regime will change its behaviour will not help Syrians or the region. We therefore do not support Syria's readmission to the Arab League in current circumstances. Ahead of the decision to re-admit Syria to the Arab League we encouraged Arab states to set firm conditions on refugee return, detainee release and justice reform. We continue to encourage our Arab partners that their further engagement is staggered and supportive of the conditions set out in UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2254. The Foreign Secretary has stated that the UK is disappointed with Syria's readmission to the Arab League; ultimately, however, decisions on membership are for League members.

Does this answer the above question?

Yes1 person thinks so

No1 person thinks not

Would you like to ask a question like this yourself? Use our Freedom of Information site.