President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon visited Saudi Arabia for the first time in eight years to improve diplomatic relations and discuss regional issues with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. They called for the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon and emphasized that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons. The visit aims to potentially lift trade bans and encourage tourism, marking a significant step in Saudi-Lebanese relations.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun concluded a high-profile visit to Saudi Arabia, where he engaged in discussions regarding regional dynamics with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This visit marks the first by a Lebanese president in eight years, signaling a possible thaw in relations that have historically been strained due to Iran’s influence in Lebanon. Both parties expressed support for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and stressed that weapons should only be possessed by the Lebanese state and its military.
During his meetings at Yamama Palace, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and President Aoun addressed not only the military presence but also the revitalization of diplomatic and economic ties. Aoun, who previously served as army commander, aims to facilitate the lifting of Saudi import bans on Lebanese goods and to encourage Saudi travelers to visit Lebanon, enhancing economic collaboration.
The backdrop of Aoun’s visit includes significant military challenges faced by Hezbollah, which suffered losses during a prolonged conflict with Israel. The joint statement issued after their meetings reiterated the need for Israel to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory and affirmed the necessity of bolstering the Lebanese army as the sole institution permitted to wield arms, thereby reinforcing state sovereignty.
Historically, Saudi Arabia had suspended a $3 billion aid package for Lebanon’s military in reaction to the country’s alignment with Iran. President Aoun indicated that there is potential for the resumption of this support, emphasizing the importance of reforms to address Lebanon’s critical economic crisis. This strategic dialogue also encompassed efforts to revive trade relations and discussed necessary measures to support Lebanon’s economic recovery.
Additionally, Aoun formally invited Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, a gesture that was favorably received. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to improving relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia amid a period of governmental reform under Aoun’s presidency and the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, which is seen as a significant shift away from Hezbollah’s influence.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal effort to strengthen diplomatic relations between Lebanon and the Kingdom. The mutual acknowledgment of the need for Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon underscores regional security concerns. Furthermore, the discussions on economic collaboration and military support reflect a shared desire for stability and reform in Lebanon amid its ongoing crisis. Aoun’s invitation to the Saudi Crown Prince further enhances the prospects of renewed engagement and cooperation.
Original Source: apnews.com
