President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon visited Saudi Arabia, the first by a Lebanese president in eight years, to discuss enhancing relations and addressing Israeli troops’ withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Leaders agreed on supporting Lebanon’s military and reviving economic ties amid ongoing regional challenges.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun concluded a pivotal visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, marking the first engagement by a Lebanese head of state in eight years. During discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the leaders emphasized the need for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon and reaffirmed that only state institutions should possess arms. This meeting aimed to mend frayed relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, historically strained due to Iran’s influence in the region.
President Aoun’s visit follows Hezbollah’s significant losses in a recent conflict with Israel, with many key figures having perished. The Israeli military had previously withdrawn several forces from Lebanon but retained five posts, deemed a breach of ceasefire agreements by Lebanese authorities. Both leaders agreed on the necessity of bolstering the Lebanese military while ensuring that the state maintains its armed forces.
The Lebanese President expressed optimistic prospects regarding Saudi Arabia’s consent to reinstate a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese military, which had been suspended in 2016 amid political discord. Aoun articulated commitments to address existing barriers hindering Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and the revival of tourism, which have been adversely affected.
The discussion also touched on the imperative for Lebanon to emerge from its prolonged economic crisis through essential reforms sought by the international community. During the visit, President Aoun extended an invitation to Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, which was met with enthusiasm from the Saudi leader. Aoun’s recent election and subsequent initiatives signify a strategic pivot towards improving relations with Arab nations and curbing Hezbollah’s influence.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a renewed effort to strengthen bilateral ties and address regional security issues. The discussions focused on the necessity of Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, support for the Lebanese military, and initiatives to revive trade and tourism. This visit is not only pivotal for Lebanon’s foreign relations but also reflects a broader commitment to reform and stability in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
