Lebanon’s New President Joseph Aoun Plans First Foreign Visit to Saudi Arabia
Lebanon’s new president, Joseph Aoun, will visit Saudi Arabia as his first foreign engagement, following a phone conversation with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Aoun aims to seek international assistance for Lebanon’s economic crisis and hopes to establish a government swiftly. This visit marks a critical step in addressing the political vacuum in Lebanon.
Joseph Aoun, Lebanon’s newly appointed president, is set to undertake his inaugural foreign visit to Saudi Arabia following his election to the presidency on Thursday, ending a two-year vacancy caused by political discord. The Lebanese presidency confirmed this visit, which follows a congratulatory phone call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. While the exact timing of the visit is yet to be determined, President Aoun affirmed that the Kingdom would be his first foreign destination.
During a statement, Aoun highlighted Lebanon’s urgent need to engage with the international community for assistance, especially in light of the profound economic crisis that has plagued the nation since 2019, compounded by conflict with Israel and tensions involving Hezbollah. He expressed hopes for a government to be established promptly in Lebanon to foster trust and cooperation with external partners.
Recently, President Aoun met with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, marking his initial international engagements since assuming office. As a former army chief, Aoun’s election addresses a prolonged political stalemate, enabling him to appoint a new prime minister to replace the interim leadership of Najib Mikati.
Lebanon has faced significant political instability over the past two years, leading to a vacancy in the presidency due to an inability among political factions to select a consensus candidate. The election of Joseph Aoun, previously the commander of the Lebanese army, now seeks to restore governmental functions and address the nation’s severe economic challenges, which have been exacerbated by external conflicts and internal divisions. This first overseas trip represents a strategic move to reinforce Lebanon’s international relations, particularly with Saudi Arabia, a key regional player.
Joseph Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a positive step for Lebanon amidst ongoing political and economic turmoil. His administration’s potential to forge alliances with foreign nations rests on the establishment of a functioning government, facilitating much-needed assistance and fostering diplomatic ties. The early engagement with international leaders underscores Lebanon’s aspiration to regain stability and confidence within the global community.
Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il
