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UK PM Starmer raises migration, border security in talks with Syria's president

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on March 31, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: April 1, 2026

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UK PM Starmer raises migration, border security in talks with Syria's president
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LONDON, March 31 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed migration and closer cooperation on returns, border security and tackling people smuggling networks in a meeting with Syrian

UK PM Starmer and Syria's President Discuss Migration, Border Security in London

Key Discussions and Outcomes of the London Meeting

Migration and Border Security Cooperation

LONDON, March 31 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed migration and closer cooperation on returns, border security and tackling people smuggling networks in a meeting with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa in London, said Starmer's office on Tuesday.

Counter-Terrorism and Regional Stability

Progress Against the Islamic State

Starmer welcomed steps taken by the Syrian government against the Islamic State and progress on UK-Syria counter-terrorism cooperation, while also addressing wider regional stability and economic issues, a Downing Street spokesperson said.

Economic and Regional Issues

(Reporting by Sarah Young, writing by Sam Tabahriti)

Key Takeaways

  • Starmer and al‑Sharaa focused on migration management, border security and disrupting people‑smuggling networks during their London meeting on March 31, 2026.
  • The UK praised Syrian efforts against Islamic State and noted progress in bilateral counter‑terrorism cooperation.
  • The talks reflect a broader shift in UK‑Syria relations, including earlier diplomatic re‑engagement and easing of sanctions to support stability and migration prevention.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics did UK PM Starmer discuss with Syria's president?
Keir Starmer discussed migration, border security, returns cooperation, and people smuggling networks with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Where did the meeting between Keir Starmer and Syria's president take place?
The meeting took place in London, according to Starmer's office.
What progress did the UK and Syria make in counter-terrorism?
Starmer welcomed Syria's actions against Islamic State and progress on UK-Syria counter-terrorism cooperation.
Did the UK PM address regional and economic issues with Syria?
Yes, Starmer also addressed wider regional stability and economic issues with the Syrian president.

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