ISTANBUL 

The UK lifted some sanctions on Syria, removing asset freezes from the Assad regime era, the country announced Thursday.

A spokesperson for the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said asset freezes were lifted on 24 Syrian entities including the Central Bank of Syria, Syrian Airlines and energy companies.

“At the same time, sanctions on members of the Assad regime and those involved in the illicit trade in Captagon remain in place," said a press release from the office.

It added that this approach underscores the country's commitment to helping the people of Syria rebuild their country and economy, including through support for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition process.

"We will continue to judge Syria’s interim authorities by their actions, not their words," it noted.