Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati have pledged to strengthen bilateral relations during Mikati’s first visit to Damascus since the Syrian civil war. The leaders highlighted mutual respect and strategic interests, aiming to address issues such as the Syrian refugee crisis and border management. Recent international engagement with Syria’s leadership showcases a potential shift in regional diplomacy.
On Saturday, Syria’s newly appointed leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati emphasized their commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. This marked the first visit of a Lebanese prime minister to Damascus since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. Mikati’s visit followed significant regional developments, including the recent capture of Damascus by Islamist-led rebels, leading to the end of Bashar al-Assad’s reign.
Sharaa expressed a desire to overhaul bilateral relations, stating, “There will be long-term strategic relations between us and Lebanon. We and Lebanon have great shared interests.” He noted that fostering a positive relationship would allow both nations to collaborate on mutual concerns. Mikati echoed this sentiment, insisting that any new relationship must be founded on principles of respect, equality, and sovereignty.
Historically, Syria had a dominating presence in Lebanon for thirty years, particularly during the Lebanese civil war. However, tensions have amplified due to Hezbollah’s support for Assad and the complexities surrounding Syrian refugees in Lebanon. As many as two million refugees have taken shelter in Lebanon, creating economic strain in the country amidst a severe crisis. Mikati stressed the urgent need for solutions regarding refugee repatriation to Syria.
Additionally, the Lebanese premier highlighted the importance of establishing and controlling borders between the two nations, proposing a joint committee to facilitate dialogue about pertinent issues. Such discussions are critical following Syria’s history of border ambiguities that contributed to smuggling and other illicit activities.
Recent efforts by foreign dignitaries to engage with Syria’s new leadership illustrate a potential shift in diplomatic relations within the region. Notably, countries like Oman maintained diplomatic ties throughout the civil war, diverging from the approaches of other Gulf states.
The war in Syria has precipitated a staggering loss of over half a million lives and devastated the economy since its inception, further complicating the region’s geopolitical landscape. The outcomes of the new leadership dynamics and international engagement remain to be seen, but they hold potential for improved relations between Lebanon and Syria.
The recent interaction between Syria’s new leadership and the Lebanese government marks a significant shift that follows years of tension stemming from the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011. Historically, the Assad regime maintained a heavy influence over Lebanon until popular protests and subsequent events led to a withdrawal of Syrian troops in 2005. The civil war created deep-rooted divisions, particularly over Hezbollah’s role, and led to Lebanese governments avoiding engagements with Syria. The appointment of a new Lebanese president, Joseph Aoun, after a two-year deadlock underscores a moment of potential reconciliation and cooperation as both nations now face the ongoing complexities of the Syrian refugee situation and border management issues.
In summary, the recent visit of Prime Minister Najib Mikati to Syria signifies a potential thaw in relations that have been historically strained by the civil war and regional dynamics. With pledges from both sides to foster long-term strategic ties based on mutual respect and interests, there is optimism for cooperative dialogue on critical issues such as refugee repatriation and border management. As regional leaders seek to address the aftermath of the Syrian conflict, this visit could herald a new chapter in Lebanon-Syria relations.
Original Source: www.france24.com
