Lebanon’s President Aoun to Request Saudi Arabia’s Resumption of Army Aid
President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon will ask Saudi Arabia to restore a $3 billion military grant during his visit next week. The aid, suspended since 2016, is pivotal as Lebanon aims to recover from recent conflicts. Aoun anticipates improved relations and hopes for economic support contingent upon financial reforms.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun plans to request the reactivation of a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese army during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia. This meeting, set for Monday with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marks Aoun’s first foreign trip since his election on January 9. The aid package was initially halted in 2016 after Lebanon failed to condemn assaults on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.
Historically, Saudi Arabia had invested significantly in Lebanon, providing financial support for reconstruction following the 2006 Hezbollah-Israel conflict and aiding various Lebanese politicians. However, Hezbollah’s growing influence, bolstered by Iran, has complicated relations. Aoun expressed his hopes for improving ties with Saudi Arabia, stating, “I hope and I await from Saudi Arabia – and especially the Crown Prince – to correct the relationship in the interests of both countries.”
Lebanon faces enormous reconstruction costs after extensive Israeli strikes, yet officials indicate that foreign assistance, particularly from Gulf nations, depends on pivotal financial reforms enacted by Beirut. Aoun has reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to these reforms, expressing a desire for incremental aid that would facilitate the return of displaced individuals to their homes in the south.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun aims to revive a vital $3 billion military aid package from Saudi Arabia during his imminent visit. With tensions in the region evolving, Aoun seeks to strengthen economic and political relations. However, Lebanon’s path to reconstruction and foreign support hinges on the implementation of necessary financial reforms.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
