President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon will visit Saudi Arabia to request the resumption of a $3-billion grant for the Lebanese army, halted since 2016. This visit is his first abroad since becoming president. Aoun aims to strengthen bilateral relations and secure reconstruction aid for Lebanon, contingent upon necessary financial reforms.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia next week, during which he will seek to reinstate a $3-billion aid package for the Lebanese army. In an interview with Asharq television, Aoun expressed his intention to ask Riyadh about the possibility of reactivating the grant, which has been suspended since 2016 due to Lebanon’s inadequate response to attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran. This upcoming visit is significant as it marks Aoun’s first trip abroad since his election as president on January 9.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has invested substantially in Lebanon, contributing to the nation’s rebuilding following the 2006 Hezbollah-Israel conflict and providing support to various Lebanese political figures. However, these relationships have strained due to Hezbollah’s growing influence, bolstered by Iranian backing, alongside a backdrop of drastic regional political changes, including Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah and the recent upheaval in Syria.
In his statements, President Aoun voiced his aspirations for revitalizing the relationship between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, particularly emphasizing the role of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He expressed hope for improving economic and political bonds that would benefit both nations. Furthermore, Aoun acknowledged the considerable reconstruction challenges Lebanon faces post-Israeli strikes and stressed the necessity for foreign support, notably from Gulf nations—contingent on Lebanon’s commitment to required financial reforms.
Aoun reassured that Lebanon is devoted to implementing necessary reforms while expressing a desire for simultaneous reconstruction aid to facilitate the return of Lebanese citizens displaced from war-torn southern regions. Such support would be vital for the reconstruction efforts, allowing those affected to rebuild their lives in their home regions.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon plans to request the renewal of a halted $3-billion grant from Saudi Arabia during his upcoming visit. He emphasizes the importance of strengthening ties and securing aid for reconstruction amidst ongoing internal reforms. The future of Lebanon’s relationship with Saudi Arabia appears contingent on Aoun’s diplomatic efforts and the nation’s commitment to reforms vital for international support.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
