Syria’s new leadership and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati have pledged to strengthen ties during Mikati’s visit to Damascus. The leaders expressed a commitment to mutual respect and sovereignty, focusing on pressing concerns such as the return of Syrian refugees and border security. This meeting marks a significant opportunity for renewed cooperation following years of strained relations influenced by the civil war and Lebanon’s internal politics.
In a momentous first visit since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Syria’s new leadership and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati have committed to enhancing bilateral relations. Following the recent changes in Syria’s political landscape, with the end of Bashar al-Assad’s rule, Prime Minister Mikati emphasized the necessity of mutual respect and sovereignty between the two nations. Both leaders expressed optimism for a renewed era of cooperation, particularly in light of Lebanon’s new presidency and ongoing refugee issues stemming from Syria’s war.
During discussions, Syria’s newly appointed ruler, Ahmed al-Sharaa, articulated hopes for improved relations, calling for a solid partnership that respects each country’s sovereignty. Mikati highlighted the urgency of addressing the large number of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, which poses significant challenges for the Lebanese economy. Additionally, he noted a priority to finalize border delineations to curb smuggling and facilitate economic cooperation, including possible offshore gas extraction initiatives.
Both leaders demonstrated a commitment to resolving pressing issues stemming from the civil war, whereby Lebanese authorities had been reticent to engage with Syria due to Hezbollah’s alignment with the Assad government. With new leadership in both countries, there is an emerging opportunity for productive dialogue and mutual benefits. The recent diplomatic visits to Damascus by foreign officials indicate a gradual return to international engagement with Syria following years of isolation due to its protracted civil conflict.
The civil war in Syria has significantly affected both Syria and Lebanon, primarily due to Lebanon’s historical ties with Syria and the presence of Syrian refugees on Lebanese soil. Syria exerted considerable influence over Lebanon for three decades until a mass withdrawal in 2005. The civil war, which began in 2011, led to a substantial refugee crisis that has burdened Lebanon’s economy. After years of political deadlock, Lebanon recently elected a new president, Joseph Aoun, providing a fresh opportunity for dialogue and cooperation between the two nations. The newly elected leaders in Lebanon and Syria are now seeking to address longstanding issues including refugee repatriation and economic collaboration, while ensuring mutual respect and sovereignty in their relations.
The meeting between Syria’s new ruler and Lebanon’s prime minister marks a pivotal moment for both countries, promising a potential shift towards improved relations. By prioritizing mutual respect and cooperation, the newly elected leaders aim to tackle pressing issues such as refugee repatriation and border control. As both nations navigate this complex political landscape, there lies hope for a renewed partnership that could stabilize the region and enhance economic collaboration.
Original Source: thesun.my
