EU negotiators could offer a way of resolving the complex problem of ending Syria’s weapons programmes.

The prime minister gave his backing on Thursday to an EU initiative, similar to those seen over recent months with Iran and Libya, to persuade Syria to end its nuclear weapons programme and support for Palestinian terrorist groups.

Syria has argued that its support is for freedom fighters and that its neighbour, Israel, is also a nuclear state.

"We are concerned that Syria does not pose a danger to the region or the wider world either through sponsoring terrorism or through WMD programmes," Blair told journalists at his monthly press conference.

"We support the concept of an EU-Syria agreement. We do need to make sure Syria is on the right path."

"I’ve tried to reach out to Syria and tried to say ‘the hand of partnership is there provided you’re prepared to abide by what are proper rules of international conduct.’"

Libya

Blair also refused to bow to pressure to cancel his expected trip to Libya following the controversy caused by comments by the country’s foreign minister.

Blair claimed remarks over the Lockerbie bombing and the shooting of WPC Yvonne Fletcher had been taken out of context.

"I was grateful for the reassurance given by the Libyan foreign minister to Jack Straw," he said.

"Any lack of clarity has now been summed up very clearly. It is important Libya does accept its full responsibility."