OTTAWA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- Canada announced on Friday that it has removed Syria from its list of foreign state supporters of terrorism and delisted Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham as a terrorist entity.

According to a statement issued by Global Affairs Canada, the measures were taken in line with recent decisions by allies, including Britain and the United States.

"These decisions were not taken lightly; the safety and security of Canadians will remain paramount for the Government of Canada," said the statement.

They also follow efforts by the Syrian transitional government to advance stability, build an inclusive and secure future for its citizens, and work alongside global partners to reinforce regional stability and counter-terrorism, it said.

Canada currently imposes sanctions on 56 Syrian entities and 225 individuals, including senior officials of the former Bashar al-Assad government as well as Assad's associates and family members. Enditem