Lebanon and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Ties Amid Calls for Israeli Withdrawal
President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon visited Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step in improving bilateral relations. He and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, stating only the Lebanese state should have arms. Discussions also focused on military support and economic reform, with Saudi Arabia considering reviving a $3 billion assistance package.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun recently concluded a significant visit to Saudi Arabia, marking the first time in eight years that a Lebanese head of state has visited the kingdom. During discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the leaders addressed key regional matters, emphasizing the necessity for Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon, reiterating that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons.
This visit is particularly important in light of the historical tensions between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, which were exacerbated by Iran’s influence in Lebanon. President Aoun’s previous role as army commander enabled him to make several visits to Saudi Arabia, and many Lebanese citizens are optimistic that this presidential visit might ease restrictions on Lebanese imports and facilitate travel for Saudi citizens to Lebanon.
Aoun’s discussions with the Crown Prince at Yamama Palace included a focus on fostering stronger bilateral relations and addressing the challenging circumstances in Lebanon. Following Hezbollah’s recent setbacks due to a protracted conflict with Israel, the Lebanese government seeks to reinforce its sovereignty and military structure.
A joint statement issued post-meeting underlined the importance of state institutions in possessing arms and called for support for the Lebanese military. It was also indicated that Israel should withdraw from all Lebanese territories, in accordance with international norms and agreements.
Additionally, it is anticipated that Saudi Arabia will reactivate its $3 billion military assistance package to Lebanon, previously shelved in response to Lebanon’s alignment with Iranian interests. Plans to explore obstacles impeding the resumption of imports from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia were also discussed, along with necessary steps to allow Saudi citizens to visit Lebanon.
The discussions came after Aoun’s election in January, filling a significant leadership void and appointing Nawaf Salam as Prime Minister. Both leaders aim to enhance Lebanon’s regional ties and implement critical reforms necessary for economic revival, which are also advocated by the international community. Aoun extended an invitation to Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, receiving a positive acknowledgement from the Crown Prince.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal step towards improving relations between Lebanon and the kingdom. The commitment to address regional security issues, particularly regarding Israeli withdrawal, indicates a unified stance. Furthermore, the potential reactivation of Saudi support for the Lebanese military and ongoing discussions about economic reform suggest a promising trajectory for Lebanon’s future stability and regional relations.
Original Source: apnews.com
