Syrian Prime Minister Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati pledged to strengthen ties during Mikati’s first visit to Damascus since 2011. They highlighted the urgent need to address the return of Syrian refugees and border delineation while fostering cooperation based on mutual respect and sovereignty. This meeting reflects a potential shift in the longstanding relationship characterized by external influence and internal challenges.
The Syrian Prime Minister, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati have inaugurated a new chapter in Syria-Lebanon relations during Mikati’s first official visit to Damascus since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. This trip occurs in the backdrop of significant political shifts following Islamist-led rebels’ control of Damascus. Sharaa expressed optimism for longer-term strategic cooperation, emphasizing shared interests between the two nations and the necessity of dialogue and negotiation to address existing issues. In particular, the return of over two million Syrian refugees and the delineation of land and sea borders were highlighted as critical agendas for discussion. Mikati echoed these sentiments, advocating for mutual respect, equality, and sovereignty in their renewed ties.
Moreover, the context of their meeting is marked by Lebanon’s ongoing struggles due to an economic crisis, exacerbated by the influx of Syrian refugees since the conflict began. The new leadership in Lebanon seeks to exploit this climatic diplomatic moment to negotiate pressing matters such as establishing border controls to curtail smuggling and facilitating the refugees’ return to Syria, which Mikati termed an “urgent matter in the interest of both countries.” Historically, Syrian influence has loomed large over Lebanese politics, with Syria being the principal power during its civil strife from 1975 to 1990.
The historically complex relationship between Syria and Lebanon has been characterized by periods of tension and cooperation. Following Syria’s military withdrawal from Lebanon in 2005, relations soured, particularly amidst Lebanese political divisions regarding the influence of Hezbollah and its support for Bashar al-Assad during the civil war. The recent establishment of a new government in Lebanon has created a potential turning point, allowing for dialogues that could enhance bilateral relations and address humanitarian and economic challenges arising from the conflict.
In summary, the meeting between Prime Minister Mikati and Prime Minister Sharaa signifies a pivotal moment in Syria-Lebanon relations, with both leaders expressing a commitment to forging lasting ties grounded in cooperation and mutual respect. The handling of Syrian refugees and border issues are pressing challenges that both nations aim to tackle collaboratively, providing a basis for a strategic and stable future. As they navigate this renewed partnership, the impact of historical grievances and external pressures will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of their relationship moving forward.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
