Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia emphasized the deep ties between the nations, with discussions on cooperation and current issues. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced reforms aimed at improving governance and public welfare in Lebanon. Security measures were heightened in response to violence in Burj Al-Barajneh and rising tensions along the southern border due to Israeli military incursions.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia on Monday, marking his inaugural official trip abroad. During the visit, he met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, where they discussed current developments in Lebanon and the region, alongside measures to strengthen bilateral relations. Aoun expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s support towards Lebanon’s stability and the contributions of Lebanese individuals to the Kingdom’s development.
Upon his arrival at King Khalid International Airport, President Aoun was accompanied by Foreign Minister Youssef Raji. Following his engagements in Riyadh, Aoun is scheduled to attend an extraordinary Arab summit in Cairo on Tuesday. The visit underlines Lebanon’s appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s role as a steadfast partner.
In related government initiatives, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam highlighted reforms aimed at improving national governance and public services in Lebanon post-confidence vote. Salam pledged to prioritize various essential issues, including enhancing living conditions, addressing public utilities, and ensuring justice in cases of prolonged detention. He emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Lebanese populace, promising a renewed level of service and governance performance.
In light of recent security concerns, the Lebanese Interior Ministry has intensified measures to ensure public safety. These steps follow a shooting incident in Burj Al-Barajneh resulting in the death of an innocent bystander caught in gang violence. Mayor Atef Mansour urged the state to act decisively against ongoing lawlessness and emphasized the urgent need for a strengthened security presence to protect citizens from violent crime.
Additionally, tensions have escalated along Lebanon’s southern border, where an Israeli shooting injured a local resident. Reports indicate that Israeli military actions, including the establishment of barriers and patrols, have hampered residents’ access to their properties. This has occurred amid recent incidents involving Israeli forces detaining individuals in border areas, raising concerns regarding security and territory rights.
President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a strengthening of bilateral relations amidst ongoing challenges in Lebanon. The Lebanese government’s commitment to reform aims to address critical issues facing the nation. Meanwhile, security measures respond to escalating crime and tensions along the southern border, highlighting the need for effective governance and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
