Lebanon’s President Aoun met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and emphasized that only the Lebanese state should hold arms. The conversation also covered the potential revival of military aid and the lifting of trade restrictions, with both leaders committing to support Lebanon’s economic reforms and sovereignty.
Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun recently concluded a visit to Saudi Arabia, where he engaged in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding regional matters. Both nations emphasized the necessity for an Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon and stated that only the Lebanese state should possess arms. This visit signifies an attempt to enhance bilateral relations and potentially lift Saudi Arabia’s ban on Lebanese imports and tourism.
Aoun’s engagement in Riyadh followed Hezbollah’s substantial losses during a prolonged conflict with Israel, further complicating Lebanon’s security landscape. Although Israel withdrew a significant number of its troops in February, five positions remain, which Lebanese authorities contend breaches the ceasefire agreement. Aoun’s prior discussions referenced Saudi Arabia’s willingness to reactivate a $3 billion military assistance deal for Lebanon’s armed forces, suspended in 2016 due to geopolitical tensions.
The summit concluded with a commitment to identify and address barriers to the resumption of Lebanese imports into Saudi Arabia and facilitate travel for Saudi citizens to Lebanon. Additionally, both parties agreed on the importance of economic reforms to revitalize Lebanon’s struggling economy and acknowledged international community expectations. Aoun formally invited Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, which the Crown Prince graciously accepted, reinforcing diplomatic ties.
With Aoun and newly appointed Prime Minister Nawaf Salam in power, there is a renewed focus on improving relations with Arab nations and implementing essential reforms. The leadership transition is viewed as a setback for Hezbollah, indicating potential shifts in Lebanon’s political landscape.
In summary, President Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant step towards improving bilateral relations and addressing pressing security concerns regarding Israeli presence in Lebanon. The discussions underscored the need for national sovereignty over arms and revitalizing economic ties, especially after a tumultuous relationship influenced by regional politics. With a focus on reform and reintegration into the Arab fold, Lebanon aims to emerge from its longstanding crisis.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
