Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman met in Riyadh on March 4 to address Lebanon’s economic recovery and the Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories. They emphasized implementing international resolutions, supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces, and restarting exports and travel between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia amidst a backdrop of diplomatic tensions. Saudi Arabia showed willingness to assist in Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts following recent conflicts, while Hezbollah also initiated its rebuilding campaigns.
On March 4, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MbS) and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun convened in Riyadh to discuss critical issues including economic recovery in Lebanon, as well as the Israeli military presence in Lebanese territories. Holding meetings that began on March 3, they emphasized the need to implement relevant international resolutions and ensure the State’s sovereignty across all Lebanese areas.
Furthermore, the leaders reinforced the importance of a unified approach to securing weapons exclusively for the Lebanese state, and acknowledged the vital role of the Lebanese Armed Forces. They noted the necessity for the Israeli army’s complete withdrawal from Lebanese territories, in alignment with the principles of sovereignty and national security.
In addition, Aoun and MbS addressed Lebanon’s pressing economic crisis, stressing the need for the country to commence necessary reforms pertaining to transparency and legal frameworks. They also committed to exploring ways to facilitate the resumption of exports between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia along with enhancing travel protocols for Saudi citizens visiting Lebanon.
This dialogue revisits relations strained due to diplomatic issues that arose when Saudi Arabia withdrew its ambassador from Lebanon in 2021, spurred by unflattering remarks by a Lebanese minister regarding the Saudi intervention in Yemen. This diplomatic row resulted in a suspension of economic collaborations between the two nations.
Lebanon has been grappling with a profound economic downturn since a financial collapse in 2019, which saw the devaluation of its currency and financial losses for many citizens. This situation has become particularly dire following a recent conflict with Israel, which began in October 2023 and led to severe destruction of Lebanon’s infrastructure.
Reports indicate that Saudi Arabia has expressed willingness to offer financial assistance for Lebanon’s reconstruction, provided they can oversee the disbursement of any such aid. Compounding these efforts, Hezbollah is launching its own initiative to rebuild areas devastated by the conflict.
While a ceasefire agreement aimed to facilitate Israeli troop withdrawal, violations persist, as the Israeli military continues to occupy parts of southern Lebanon, contradicting UN Resolution 1701. President Aoun and newly appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam maintain close ties with Saudi Arabia, which have been fostered during Aoun’s leadership of the Lebanese Armed Forces.
In summary, the discussions between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun highlight critical issues surrounding Lebanon’s sovereignty, the need for economic recovery, and the complexities of the Israeli military presence. Their agreement points toward potential cooperation for Lebanon’s reconstruction and the restoration of diplomatic and economic ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Continued support from regional partners may hold the key to overcoming Lebanon’s ongoing crises.
Original Source: thecradle.co
