Lebanon and Saudi Arabia Enhance Relations While Calling for Israeli Withdrawal
President Michel Aoun of Lebanon visited Saudi Arabia, discussing regional affairs and calling for Israeli troops’ withdrawal from Lebanon. The leaders agreed on the necessity for state control over weapons and the revitalization of Lebanese-Saudi relations, particularly regarding economic issues. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signaled readiness to resume military support to Lebanon, while Aoun invited him to visit Lebanon, indicating a potential thaw in diplomatic relations.
On Tuesday, Lebanese President Michel Aoun concluded his visit to Saudi Arabia, during which he engaged in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding regional matters. Both leaders unanimously called for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and affirmed that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons. This statement emphasizes the importance of national sovereignty and stability in the region, highlighting the significance of a united Lebanese military.
Aoun’s previous interactions with Saudi Arabia as army commander laid the groundwork for this presidential visit. Observers in Lebanon hope that this summit will unlock Saudi Arabia’s ban on Lebanese imports and facilitate the return of Saudi tourists to Lebanon. This potential warming of relations comes at a crucial time for Lebanon.
The meeting took place at Yamama Palace in Riyadh, with both leaders focusing on enhancing bilateral relations while addressing the current situation in Lebanon. Aoun’s visit follows Hezbollah’s significant losses during a 14-month conflict with Israel, concluding with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Despite Israel’s withdrawal from many positions in February, five posts remain, which Lebanese officials view as a breach of the ceasefire agreement.
A joint statement released after the summit highlighted that only state institutions in Lebanon should hold arms, advocating for a bolstered Lebanese army. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince has indicated a willingness to reinitiate a $3 billion support package for the Lebanese military, which was previously suspended due to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran.
Both leaders expressed commitment to resolving obstacles hindering the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and facilitating travel for Saudi nationals to Lebanon. They acknowledged the critical need for Lebanon to recover from its historical economic crisis and undertake necessary reforms demanded by the international community. Aoun also extended an invitation to the Crown Prince to visit Lebanon, which was graciously received.
Elected in January after a political vacuum lasting over two years, President Aoun, alongside Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, is committed to fostering improved relations with Arab nations and implementing essential reforms. Their elevation to power is perceived as a considerable setback for Hezbollah, indicating a shift in Lebanon’s political landscape.
In conclusion, President Michel Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal step towards strengthening relations between Lebanon and the kingdom. The discussions underscored a mutual desire for Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory and emphasized the necessity for a unified state military. Furthermore, the leaders’ commitment to enhancing economic ties and ensuring political reforms presents a hopeful outlook for Lebanon’s future stability and prosperity.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
