Syria and Lebanon Seek to Rebuild Relations Amid Changing…

During Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s first visit to Syria since the civil war began, he and new Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa pledged to strengthen ties underpinned by mutual respect. This meeting comes in the backdrop of significant political changes and a pressing refugee crisis impacting Lebanon. Both leaders expressed intentions to collaboratively address border issues and improve their diplomatic relations.

On Saturday, Syria’s newly appointed leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati affirmed their commitment to strengthen enduring relations during Mikati’s inaugural visit to Damascus, the first by a Lebanese premier since the Syrian civil war commenced in 2011. Mikati’s visit follows significant developments in Syria, including the recent takeover of Damascus by Islamist-led groups, leading to Bashar al-Assad’s ouster. This meeting signifies a potential shift toward rebuilding ties which have been strained due to Hezbollah’s support for the Syrian regime throughout the conflict.

Sharaa expressed aspirations to redefine relations with Lebanon, emphasizing the shared interests between the two nations, and stated, “There will be long-term strategic relations between us and Lebanon.” He proposed a fresh start in diplomatic engagements, encouraging dialogue as a means to resolve disputes. Mikati echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of establishing relations founded on mutual respect and national sovereignty.

Another critical issue discussed was the plight of approximately two million Syrian refugees in Lebanon, a situation that Mikati described as “an urgent matter in the interest of both countries.” Lebanon has been significantly challenged by the economic burden imposed by these refugees amid its ongoing financial crisis since 2019. Both nations highlighted the necessity to define their land and maritime borders, a complex issue that has hindered Lebanon’s offshore resource exploration initiatives due to past refusals from the Syrian regime to establish clear demarcations.

With the reconfiguration of leadership following the presidency of Joseph Aoun in Lebanon, there are renewed hopes for stability and interstate cooperation. Notably, Mikati noted the importance of exercising control over border activities to combat smuggling, underscoring the need for a joint committee to address border delineation—a topic of contention under Assad’s administration. As regional dynamics evolve, including diplomatic engagement from various foreign dignitaries visiting Syria, a potential path to rebuilding a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship between Syria and Lebanon appears feasible.

The longstanding political tension between Syria and Lebanon has roots in the complex interplay of influences through decades of Syrian intervention in Lebanon’s affairs. From 1975 to 1990, Syria maintained a significant military presence and exerted considerable power over Lebanese governance, particularly during the Lebanese Civil War. The assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafic Hariri in 2005 marked a turning point, leading to increased opposition against Syrian dominance and calls for Lebanese sovereignty, resulting in Syria’s military withdrawal. The ousting of Assad has opened a new chapter in Lebanese-Syrian relations, emphasizing the need for cooperative efforts to address mutual concerns including refugee crises and border security.

The meeting between the newly appointed Syrian leadership and the Lebanese Prime Minister signifies a possible thaw in relations that have been fraught with historical tension. Shared challenges, particularly regarding Syrian refugees in Lebanon and the need for border demarcation, highlight the strategic necessity for both nations to foster communication and collaboration. As regional dynamics shift, the potential for long-term partnerships based on mutual respect and sovereignty could pave the way for enhanced stability in both countries.

Original Source: www.news-shield.com