Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Undertakes First Foreign Visit to Saudi Arabia
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is making his first foreign visit to Saudi Arabia since assuming office. This trip aims to mend relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, hindered by Hezbollah’s influence. Aoun hopes to revive military aid and promote economic ties aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. He has also been invited to an urgent Arab summit concerning Gaza in Cairo.
On Monday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun embarked on his inaugural international visit to Saudi Arabia since his election earlier this year. His election, which took place on January 9 and ended a prolonged political vacuum amid economic turmoil, was facilitated by the diminishing power of Hezbollah amid recent conflict.
Accompanied by Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji, President Aoun departed from Rafic Hariri International Airport to engage in talks to mend the strained relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, which have been troubled for years due to Hezbollah’s influence over Lebanese policies. In a recent interview, he expressed his intention to potentially revive military aid from Riyadh, halted in 2016.
Aoun highlighted the significance of Saudi Arabia as his first destination, referencing their historic ties and the Kingdom’s pivotal role regionally and globally. He expressed a desire to improve bilateral relations and establish robust economic connections, particularly in aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency.
The newly elected president has committed to a future where the state possesses a monopoly on arms, contrasting with Hezbollah, which retained its weapons post-civil war. In addition to his visit to Saudi Arabia, President Aoun has also received an invitation to participate in an urgent Arab summit concerning Gaza, hosted by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s first trip to Saudi Arabia is a significant step toward restoring Lebanese-Saudi relations, potentially reviving military support and fostering economic ties. Emphasizing his commitment to Lebanon’s sovereignty and neutrality, Aoun aims to navigate the nation’s political landscape while enhancing its connections with Arab nations. His upcoming participation in an Arab summit indicates a proactive approach to regional cooperation.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
