Lebanon’s President Aoun Prioritizes Visit to Saudi Arabia Following Election
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that Saudi Arabia will be his first foreign visit post-election, affirming its crucial role in supporting Lebanon. Following a call from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Aoun expressed his commitment to forming a government swiftly to restore stability and build trust internationally.
On Saturday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that his inaugural foreign visit will be to Saudi Arabia following his election on Thursday. The announcement follows a congratulatory phone call from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who represented King Salman bin Abdulaziz. During this conversation, the Crown Prince extended an invitation for President Aoun to visit Saudi Arabia, which Aoun accepted, emphasizing the nation’s historical support for Lebanon and the significance of Lebanon’s identity within the Arab world. Aoun highlighted the vital need to reinforce the longstanding relationship between the two countries as they discussed recent political developments.
Furthermore, Aoun expressed his aspirations to swiftly form a new government to lead Lebanon towards stability and to establish a foundation of trust with the international community. In his first official meeting with Lebanon’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian at the Baabda Palace, he reaffirmed his dedication to creating a fair and equitable state for all Lebanese citizens. In a related note, Aoun revealed that parliamentary consultations to appoint a prime minister are set to begin on Monday, marking a significant step in Lebanon’s political revival after over two years of instability following the departure of President Michel Aoun in October 2022.
The political landscape in Lebanon has been fraught with challenges, particularly following the tenure of former President Michel Aoun. His departure in October 2022 led to a prolonged political vacuum, leaving the country without a president for more than two years. Joseph Aoun’s recent election as president is seen as a pivotal moment for Lebanon, prompting discussions about governmental formation and re-engagement with regional allies, particularly Saudi Arabia, which has played a significant role in Lebanon’s political affairs.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s prioritization of a visit to Saudi Arabia underscores the importance of strengthening historical ties and securing regional support for Lebanon. His administration aims to quickly establish a government and rebuild trust with the international community, setting the stage for a renewed political era in Lebanon.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
