The first official visit by a Lebanese Prime Minister to Syria since the civil war marks a potential thaw in relations. Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, expressed intentions to establish strong ties, discussing shared interests such as the return of refugees and border security. The meeting comes after significant political changes in both countries, following the recent end of Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
In a significant move towards reconciliation, Syrian Prime Minister Najib Mikati visited Damascus, marking the first official visit by a Lebanese head of government since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. During this visit, Mikati and Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, expressed their commitment to establishing enduring ties amidst a backdrop of recent political changes in Lebanon.
The meeting comes after the departure of Bashar al-Assad, with Mikati emphasizing the importance of building a relationship grounded in mutual respect and sovereignty. Al-Sharaa expressed hopes for improved relations, stating: “There will be long-term strategic relations between us and Lebanon. We and Lebanon have great shared interests.”
The leaders discussed various pressing issues, including the urgent need for the safe return of approximately two million Syrian refugees who have fled to Lebanon and the necessity of delineating land and maritime borders between the two nations. Mikati stressed that resolving the refugee situation is essential for both countries, noting that Lebanon is facing an unprecedented economic crisis exacerbated by the influx of displaced persons.
Furthermore, they addressed the issue of border security and the imperative for joint control to combat smuggling, particularly in regions where borders remain poorly defined. With Lebanon now having a complimentary political leadership following the election of President Joseph Aoun, there is optimism about addressing long-standing grievances and fostering mutual cooperation moving forward.
The political landscape in Syria and Lebanon has been fraught with tension, particularly since the eruption of the Syrian civil war in 2011. Historically, Syria exercised significant influence over Lebanon, a relationship that soured amidst Lebanon’s internal conflicts and its opposition to the Assad regime. The recent election of a new Lebanese president and the final withdrawal of Assad have paved the way for renewed dialogue, reflecting a shifting geopolitical dynamic in the region. Both nations share critical interests, particularly in economic and border management matters, highlighting the need for collaborative governance.
The recent meeting between Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa represents a pivotal shift in Lebanese-Syrian relations post-civil war. Their agreement to prioritize mutual respect, address refugee issues, and collaborate on border security reflects a significant diplomatic thaw and an opportunity for joint stability in the region. As both leaders navigate these pressing challenges, the potential for a new chapter in Syrian-Lebanese relations appears promising, contingent upon sustained dialogue and cooperation.
Original Source: www.news-shield.com
