Lebanon and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Ties, Advocate for Israeli Withdrawal
President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon concluded a historic visit to Saudi Arabia, marking an effort to enhance bilateral relations. Discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman included calls for Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon. Aoun’s visit is expected to pave the way for reforms and the resumption of imports from Lebanon, along with Saudi tourist returns, amid efforts to strengthen the Lebanese Army.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun completed a visit to Saudi Arabia, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of state in eight years. During the meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, they discussed regional dynamics and called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon, asserting that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons.
Aoun’s previous role as army commander allowed him to visit Saudi Arabia several times, and there is optimism that his current position will facilitate easing the ban on Lebanese imports and encourage Saudi tourists to visit Lebanon. During their discussions, both leaders focused on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing the ongoing challenges in Lebanon.
The meeting follows Hezbollah’s significant setbacks during its recent conflict with Israel and subsequent ceasefire agreement. Israel has retained several military posts in Lebanon, which Lebanese officials argue breaches the ceasefire conditions. The joint statement emphasizes that arms possession in Lebanon should be restricted to state institutions and that the Lebanese Army requires support.
During the visit, President Aoun indicated that Saudi Arabia would reactivate a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese Army, initially suspended due to Lebanese political alignments. Furthermore, both parties agreed to analyze barriers to the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and to facilitate travel for Saudi citizens to Lebanon, highlighting a commitment to economic recovery and necessary reforms in Beirut.
This official visit by President Joseph Aoun signifies a potential turning point in Lebanese-Saudi relations, focusing on mutual cooperation to address regional stability and economic revival. The commitment to supporting the Lebanese army while asserting state authority over arms echoes regional security priorities. The invitations for reciprocal visits underscore a newfound diplomatic openness that may yield future benefits for Lebanon’s economy and international standing.
Original Source: apnews.com
