Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced Saudi Arabia as his first destination for foreign visits post-inauguration. Aoun received a congratulatory call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reinforcing the historic ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Aoun aims to form a government quickly to reconstruct national trust and identity.
On Saturday, President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon announced that he would prioritize a visit to Saudi Arabia as his first international destination following his inauguration on Thursday. The Lebanese presidential palace disclosed that he received a congratulatory phone call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who represented King Salman bin Abdulaziz. Aoun reaffirmed the historical significance of Saudi Arabia’s support for Lebanon and its integral role in reinforcing Lebanon’s Arab identity in shaping its foreign relations.
During the discussion, the leaders addressed recent developments as well as strategies to enhance the longstanding relationship between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. Aoun also expressed his aspirations to establish a Lebanese government promptly, aiming to foster trust with the international community. In a subsequent meeting with Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian, Aoun reiterated his commitment to creating a just and equitable state that accommodates all the diverse elements of Lebanese society. Furthermore, he announced that parliamentary consultations for selecting a prime minister would commence on Monday. This follows his election by the Lebanese parliament, which concluded a political vacuum that had persisted for over two years since former President Michel Aoun’s departure from office in October 2022.
The announcement regarding President Joseph Aoun’s intended inaugural foreign visit reflects Lebanon’s diplomatic priorities and its historically close ties with Saudi Arabia. The significance of this relationship has been underscored by Saudi Arabia’s ongoing support for Lebanon in various forms, especially in the context of regional conflicts and political instability. Aoun’s election also marks a vital moment for Lebanon amid its efforts to restore governance and strengthen bonds with the Arab world, fostering unity within the region’s framework of mutual cooperation and support.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s plan to visit Saudi Arabia first emphasizes the country’s importance in Lebanon’s diplomatic landscape. The discussions between Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman indicate a desire to deepen the historical ties between the two nations. Recognizing Saudi Arabia’s role in bolstering Lebanon’s identity and political structure, Aoun’s administration aims to swiftly establish a government to rebuild trust and collaboration with the international community.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
