Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia, his first international trip since taking office, aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties. He plans to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and hopes to revive military aid and economic connections between the nations. Aoun emphasizes historic relations and a collaborative future amidst Lebanon’s ongoing political and economic challenges.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun embarked on his inaugural foreign visit to Saudi Arabia on Monday, marking a significant step in Lebanon’s quest to strengthen diplomatic relations. Elected on January 9 amidst an ongoing political and economic crisis, Aoun, formerly the army chief, is perceived as having support from Riyadh and Washington. His election was facilitated by the declining influence of Hezbollah, Lebanon’s Iran-aligned political force, during a recent conflict with Israel.
During his visit, President Aoun is scheduled to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia. The Lebanese presidency expressed optimism regarding the discussions, stating that Aoun hopes they will “pave the way for a later visit in which agreements strengthening cooperation between the two brotherly countries will be signed.” He emphasized his goal of revitalizing military aid, which had been previously halted by Saudi Arabia due to Hezbollah’s influence over Lebanese governance.
Aoun chose Saudi Arabia as his first destination due to its “historic links” with Lebanon and its significant role in regional and global matters. He articulated his expectation for Saudi Arabia to assist in recalibrating bilateral relations to benefit both nations. Furthermore, Aoun expressed ambitions to cultivate economic ties aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to diversify its economy beyond oil reliance.
He reaffirmed his commitment to asserting control over weapons within Lebanon, aiming for a Lebanese state monopoly, even as Hezbollah remains the sole group retaining its arms since the civil war. Aoun also articulated a vision for “positive neutrality” and the cultivation of amicable relations with Arab nations, indicating a desire for a cooperative future and mutual benefit in regional diplomacy.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies an important effort to mend and strengthen Lebanon’s diplomatic relations with a key regional player. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman aim to reinstate military aid and enhance economic cooperation. Aoun’s focus on historical ties and a commitment to building a cooperative future reflects a strategic shift in Lebanese foreign policy.
Original Source: www.gulftoday.ae
