Lebanon anticipates heightened diplomatic activity with visits from foreign leaders following President Joseph Aoun’s election. Jordan’s FM met with Aoun to discuss regional cooperation, while Qatar extended an invitation for Aoun to visit Doha. Additionally, France’s President Macron and UN Secretary-General Guterres are set to arrive, emphasizing international support for Lebanon’s stability and governance reform efforts.
Lebanon is poised for significant diplomatic engagements over the next two days, with Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi arriving in Beirut, and high-profile visits from the UN Secretary-General and the French President expected soon. Following President Joseph Aoun’s election, global leaders have notably extended their support to Lebanon, particularly after the recent appointment of Nawaf Salam to form a new cabinet.
During his visit, Safadi met with President Aoun at the Baabda Palace and expressed optimism regarding Lebanon’s revival as a cultural and economic center in the region. He emphasized the urgent need for reconstruction efforts after the devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah last year.
Safadi called for Israel to adhere to the ceasefire agreement established on November 27, which mandates an Israeli military pullout from southern Lebanon and the positioning of Hezbollah forces north of the Litani River. He criticized ongoing Israeli transgressions, including destructive actions against local communities along the border.
In addressing energy concerns, Safadi proposed the long-delayed plan for Jordan to export electricity to Lebanon, contingent upon overcoming existing US sanctions that hinder this initiative. He met with various Lebanese leaders, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, both emphasizing a fresh chapter in Lebanon’s history and discussing ongoing relations between Lebanon and Jordan.
Furthering diplomatic ties, Qatar’s ambassador invited President Aoun to visit Doha, reaffirming Qatar’s commitment to supporting the Lebanese army through 2025. Qatar has historically played a crucial role in Lebanese politics, aiding in past resolutions to political crises.
In keeping with his international outreach, President Aoun has received invitations to visit multiple countries, including Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Greece. France’s President Emmanuel Macron is also set to arrive in Beirut to extend congratulations to Aoun and discuss support for Lebanon’s governance and reforms.
Finally, on the same day as Macron’s visit, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will convene a meeting in Lebanon addressing the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and the forthcoming withdrawal of Israeli forces. This gathering, involving military leaders from various nations, aims to reinforce commitments to peace and security in the region.
The diplomatic landscape in Lebanon has recently shifted, particularly following the election of President Joseph Aoun, which marked the end of a prolonged political stalemate. With international support flooding in, the focus now lies on stabilizing Lebanon’s socio-economic conditions and ensuring adherence to agreed-upon ceasefire terms with Israel. The humanitarian need for reconstruction and the push for energy solutions underscore the urgency of external diplomatic engagement.
The diplomatic activity surrounding Lebanon indicates a potential turning point for the nation, following recent leadership changes. Jordan and Qatar’s engagement reflects a broader international commitment to the stability and reconstruction of Lebanon. Future visits from key leaders, including those from France and the UN, reinforce the international community’s support for Lebanon’s recovery and regional stability. Ultimately, how Lebanon manages these relationships and navigates ongoing challenges will significantly impact its future.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
