Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia, marking the first visit in six years. He aims to mend strained relations and expressed hope that Saudi Arabia will lift travel and trade bans on Lebanon. This visit could lead to renewed support for Lebanon’s military and reconstruction efforts after conflicts with Israel.
In a significant diplomatic move, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed his aspirations to enhance relations with Saudi Arabia during his first visit to the kingdom in six years. This visit signifies a thaw in the long-standing strained ties between the two nations, largely attributed to Saudi Arabia’s concerns regarding Hezbollah and Lebanon’s regional positions.
President Aoun’s recent actions, including appointing Nawaf Salam as Prime Minister—both perceived as setbacks for Hezbollah—infuse hope for improved relations. The visit aims to persuade Saudi Arabia to lift an existing ban on travel and trade, which negatively impacts Lebanon’s economy and reconstruction efforts following the war with Israel.
During his visit, President Aoun referred to the occasion as an opportunity to reaffirm the strength of Lebanese-Saudi relations and to express gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Lebanon’s stability and functional governance. Aoun also indicated that a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese army would be revitalized, crucial for enhancing Lebanon’s defense capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions.
This visit marks Aoun’s first international trip as president and follows increased diplomatic interactions, including recent visits by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Beirut. Previous tensions from 2021 over drug smuggling and critical remarks by the Lebanese information minister on Saudi actions in Yemen led to a significant diplomatic crisis, complicating relations further.
President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal development in Lebanese diplomacy, aiming to restore significant ties following years of tension. By reaffirming support and discussing aid packages, this engagement could lead to tangible benefits for Lebanon’s economy and security. The restoration of relations marks a constructive step for both nations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in regional stability.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
