Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s pivotal visit to Saudi Arabia led to an agreement on enhancing bilateral relations with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The leaders discussed cooperation across various sectors, underscored the need for reforms in Lebanon, and acknowledged critical regional issues including sovereignty and economic recovery. Aoun’s invitation for Salman to visit Lebanon was positively received, indicating a strengthening partnership between the two nations.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun recently concluded a significant meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. This landmark visit marks the first official Lebanese delegation to the Kingdom in eight years, and both leaders have agreed to foster cooperation across all sectors. Aoun expressed gratitude in a telegram to the Crown Prince for Saudi Arabia’s historic support for Lebanon and its people.
The two leaders engaged in extensive discussions on various issues of mutual interest at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh. Their meeting was attended by several high-ranking Saudi officials, including members of the Cabinet and the Minister of Defense. Lebanese officials present included Foreign Minister Youssef Raji and Ambassador Fawzi Kabbara. The objective of the discussions was to pave the way for signing multiple agreements aimed at strengthening Arab cooperation and addressing key regional matters.
During a 45-minute private discussion, Aoun and the Crown Prince emphasized the necessity of full implementation of the Taif Agreement and relevant international resolutions. Both sides underlined the importance of the Lebanese state’s sovereignty and the exclusive possession of arms by the Lebanese army. They also recognized the urgent need for reforms to facilitate economic recovery in Lebanon and agreed to improve trade and travel relations between the two countries.
Following the talks, it was noted that the resumption of exports from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia would require careful review. Aoun has invited Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Lebanon, an invitation that was warmly received. The meeting has been described as an exceptional opportunity for Lebanon to redefine its relationships with Arab nations, particularly highlighting Saudi Arabia’s crucial role as a gateway for tourism and investment.
As President Aoun left for an Arab League summit in Cairo, he also addressed pressing regional concerns, including the presence of Israeli forces in southern Lebanon and the return of Syrian refugees. He had impactful discussions with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other officials, who acknowledged the need for Lebanon to renew its commitment to reforms while respecting its sovereignty.
Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raji additionally addressed Lebanese-Syrian relations with his counterpart, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. Meanwhile, tensions escalated with Israel increasing violations of Lebanese sovereignty, evidenced by an attack in the Tyre district.
The discussions between President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signify a positive shift in Lebanon-Saudi relations, marked by a commitment to economic cooperation and mutual assistance. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of safeguarding Lebanon’s sovereignty while pursuing necessary reforms. Aoun’s visit lays the groundwork for a potential resurgence in trade and investment with the Kingdom, which could be pivotal for Lebanon’s economic future amid ongoing regional tensions.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
