Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on his first official trip abroad, marking an effort to strengthen bilateral relations. Aoun’s election ended a two-year political vacuum amidst a national crisis, and he expressed hopes for military aid reactivation and economic cooperation aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative.
On his inaugural official visit abroad, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun engaged in discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. Aoun, who ascended to the presidency on January 9, marks the end of a political void that lasted over two years amidst a severe economic crisis. His election was facilitated by the weakening of Hezbollah during the recent conflict with Israel.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that Aoun’s meeting with the Crown Prince included dialogues about rebuilding bilateral relationships. Prior to the meeting, the Lebanese presidency shared Aoun’s anticipation regarding the discussions, expressing optimism that these talks would lead to agreements enhancing cooperation between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.
Historically, relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia have faced difficulties, particularly after Riyadh ceased a $3 billion military aid package to the Lebanese army in 2016, a decision linked to Hezbollah’s political influence. President Aoun, in a recent statement to Asharq Al-Awsat, indicated his intent to revive military assistance if feasible.
Aoun selected Saudi Arabia as his first destination due to its significant historical ties with Lebanon and its pivotal role within the region and globally. He expressed hopes that Saudi Arabia would assist in re-establishing relations beneficial to both nations and overcoming recent challenges.
In his remarks, Aoun expressed the desire to foster normal economic relations, suggesting that Lebanon could align with Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030,” an initiative aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil dependency. He remarked, “This would allow the Saudis to return to their second home, Lebanon, while Lebanese look forward to reconnecting with Saudi Arabia.”
Upon his election, Aoun pledged to control arms within the Lebanese state and promote a policy of “positive neutrality” with Arab countries. However, Hezbollah retains its arms, remaining a key political force in Lebanon. Additionally, Aoun was invited by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to attend an urgent Arab summit concerning Gaza in Cairo.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s first international trip to Saudi Arabia signifies a strategic effort to mend and strengthen Lebanon’s ties with the kingdom. The discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reflect Aoun’s commitment to fostering cooperation and addressing long-standing issues between the two nations. His diplomatic approach is aimed at revitalizing military support and establishing robust economic relations, in the backdrop of regional geopolitical dynamics. Aoun’s vision of building a resilient Lebanese state is challenged by the persistent influence of Hezbollah but indicates his determination to embrace positive relations with Arab states.
Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae
