Syrian Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s historic visit to Damascus marks a pivotal moment in Syrian-Lebanese relations following years of tension. Mikati and new Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasized the need for strategic ties based on mutual respect and cooperation, particularly in addressing the Syrian refugee issue and border delineation. This meeting reflects a shifting political landscape after Lebanon elected President Joseph Aoun, enhancing hopes for a collaborative future.
In a significant diplomatic development, Syrian Prime Minister Najib Mikati made the first visit by a Lebanese head of government to Damascus since the onset of the civil war in 2011. This meeting followed the recent rise of Islamist-led rebels in Syria, which resulted in the end of President Bashar al-Assad’s administration. The new Syrian leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, expressed optimism for enhanced partnerships, emphasizing shared interests between the two nations.
With Lebanon’s political landscape shifting after the recent election of President Joseph Aoun, Sharaa expressed aspirations for stable bilateral relations and a commitment to resolving issues through negotiation. Mikati echoed these sentiments, prioritizing a partnership based on mutual respect and sovereignty. The Lebanese premier recognized the urgency of addressing the presence of approximately 2 million Syrian refugees in Lebanon, asserting their repatriation as a mutual priority.
Discussions also highlighted the need to delineate land and maritime borders to facilitate economic cooperation, particularly concerning offshore gas extraction. Despite the previous complexities in border management under the Assad regime, there appears to be a willingness to clarify these issues, thereby addressing longstanding grievances that have strained relations between the two countries.
Additionally, Syria’s recent restrictions on the entry of Lebanese citizens suggest ongoing tensions, but both parties appear committed to establishing a cooperative foundation moving forward. Sharaa affirmed a neutral stance toward all factions in Lebanon, aiming for a collaborative approach to regional stability.
The relations between Syria and Lebanon have historically been fraught with tension, especially following the civil war that erupted in Syria in 2011. This war significantly altered the political dynamics in the region, with Lebanon being closely tied to Syrian governance under Bashar al-Assad. For decades, Syria exerted substantial influence in Lebanon, complicating diplomatic relations, particularly with the emergence of Hezbollah, which supported Assad’s regime. The recent election of President Joseph Aoun in Lebanon marks a pivotal moment that could lead to renewed diplomatic efforts between the two nations, particularly in addressing refugee crises and border issues, which have been longstanding points of contention. The current geopolitical landscape also reflects a shift, as Hezbollah’s recent conflict with Israel has impacted its power positions within Lebanon, potentially paving the way for new diplomatic engagements that aim to stabilize both countries.
The recent visit by Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to Syria signifies a potential turning point in the historically tumultuous relationship between the two nations. As both leaders express a desire to establish long-term strategic ties and collaboratively address pressing issues such as border delineation and the Syrian refugee crisis, there is a cautious optimism regarding regional stability. Their commitment to constructive dialogue, along with a focus on mutual interests, may herald a new chapter in Syrian-Lebanese relations, despite underlying tensions that continue to persist.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
