Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa have pledged to restore relations during Mikati’s first visit to Damascus since the Syrian civil war began in 2011. They emphasized mutual interests, the return of Syrian refugees, and the need for border demarcation. Both leaders expressed optimism for positive bilateral ties moving forward as Lebanon stabilizes under new leadership.
During a historic visit, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati met with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking the first official engagement between the two nations since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. This meeting followed the recent seizure of Damascus by Islamist-led rebels that concluded the era of Bashar al-Assad’s governance. Mikati’s visit reflects a potential thawing in relations, with leaders emphasizing the need for strategic partnerships, addressing mutual interests, and resolving longstanding issues in a spirit of respect and sovereignty.
With both leaders expressing optimism for renewed collaboration, Sharaa remarked on the importance of fostering a cooperative relationship, stating, “There will be long-term strategic relations between us and Lebanon. We and Lebanon have great shared interests.” He further asserted the necessity of dialogue to overcome prevailing tensions and demonstrate a commitment to stability in Lebanon through Joseph Aoun’s newly elected presidency. Mikati echoed these sentiments, highlighting the prioritization of mutual respect in bolstering Lebanese-Syrian ties.
The backdrop to this diplomatic engagement includes Syria’s historical dominance over Lebanon, underscored by decades of military presence and political influence which only dissipated following widespread civil unrest and the assassination of Lebanese ex-premier Rafic Hariri. Mikati’s government aims to address significant challenges, such as the return of approximately two million Syrian refugees who have sought refuge in Lebanon, a situation exacerbated by the country’s dire economic crisis. Resolving these refugee issues is deemed an urgent priority for both nations.
Moreover, Mikati intends to establish clear land and maritime borders between Lebanon and Syria, a matter that has faced obstacles under previous administrations. He called for the formation of a joint committee to facilitate discussions that could lead to border demarcation and bolster Lebanon’s prospects for offshore gas extraction. Additionally, both nations are committed to enhancing control over border crossings to mitigate smuggling activities, which have fueled economic and security concerns.
International engagement with Syria appears to be warming, as recent visits from various foreign dignitaries signal a shift in diplomatic relations. Following the years of isolation consequent to the civil war, various nations now express renewed interest in direct dialogues with the Syrian government. As these developments unfold, the enduring impact of the Syrian conflict, which has had a devastating toll on the nation and the region, continues to shape the geopolitical landscape.
The article captures the significant diplomatic developments between Lebanon and Syria following years of strained relations due to the Syrian civil war. The meeting between Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa symbolizes a pivotal moment in the two countries’ diplomatic history. The context includes Syria’s long-standing influence in Lebanon, which has been complicated by issues such as the presence of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and the need for border demarcation. Recent political changes in Lebanon herald a possible shift toward improved relations and cooperation between the two neighboring countries as they seek to navigate the aftermath of years of conflict and isolation.
In summary, the meeting between Prime Minister Najib Mikati and President Ahmed al-Sharaa represents a crucial step toward rebuilding relations between Lebanon and Syria after years of tension stemming from the Syrian civil war. Their discussions focused on mutual interests, the pressing issue of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, and the need for border clarity and smuggling controls. As both nations look towards a future marked by cooperation, the regional diplomatic landscape is poised for transformation.
Original Source: www.northwestsignal.net
