Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia, aiming to repair ties after years of strain due to Hezbollah and regional issues. This visit follows a significant political shift in Lebanon and emphasizes the need for Saudi aid in recovery efforts. Aoun’s statements reflect a commitment to strengthening relationships while addressing prior tensions and sanctions imposed by Saudi Arabia.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun expressed his hope to enhance relations with Saudi Arabia during his recent visit, marking the first such trip in six years. This visit comes after a prolonged period of strained ties, largely due to concerns over the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah and Lebanon’s stance on various regional matters. Saudi Arabia had previously imposed travel and import bans on Lebanon as a reaction to these tensions.
Aoun’s visit underscores a shift in the political landscape following his appointment as president and the selection of Nawaf Salam, a diplomat, and former head of the International Criminal Court, as prime minister, both viewed as adverse to Hezbollah’s influence. As diplomatic relations begin to improve, Lebanon is eager for Saudi Arabia to lift its travel ban, reestablish trade, and assist in the country’s reconstruction efforts, especially after damages incurred during previous conflicts.
During his visit, Aoun stated that it was an “opportunity to emphasize the depth of Lebanese-Saudi relations and also an occasion to express Lebanon’s appreciation for the role played by the kingdom in supporting Lebanon’s stability, safety, and the regularity of the work of its constitutional institutions.” These remarks highlight a renewed commitment to strengthening ties between the two countries.
Tensions peaked in 2021 following Saudi criticism of Lebanese authorities for not addressing drug smuggling, leading to sanctions. Notably, Aoun recently mentioned that Riyadh might reactivate a significant $3 billion military aid package, as Lebanon seeks to bolster its military along its borders amid a fragile ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Aoun’s one-day visit marks his inaugural trip abroad as president following his election in January, taking place after Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan’s recent visit to Beirut, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the two nations.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a critical step towards mending relations between Lebanon and the kingdom. Through this visit, Lebanon seeks to reinstate vital support from Saudi Arabia, including the lifting of travel bans and military aid, as it navigates post-war challenges and strives for national stability.
Original Source: www.wral.com
