Lebanese President Joseph Aoun begins his first foreign visit to Saudi Arabia, expressing hopes for improved relations with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Aoun aims to revitalize military aid and economic partnership, while committing to state authority and positive neutrality in foreign relations. He has also received an invitation to attend an urgent Arab summit in Cairo.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has embarked on his inaugural foreign trip to Saudi Arabia following his election, which concluded a prolonged power vacuum in Lebanon. He assumed office on January 9, 2023, amidst a significant political and economic crisis, following the decline of Hezbollah’s influence due to their involvement in a conflict with Israel. Upon his arrival, Aoun expressed anticipation for fruitful discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
During his upcoming meeting with the Crown Prince, Aoun hopes to strengthen bilateral relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, stating that these discussions could lead to agreements that enhance cooperation. He emphasized the historical ties between the two nations, which have been strained in previous years, particularly following Riyadh’s suspension of military support in 2016, due to Hezbollah’s political dominion.
Aoun remarked in a recent interview that one of his objectives is to revitalize military aid from Saudi Arabia. He selected Saudi Arabia as his first destination due to its significant historical connections with Lebanon and its influential regional role. He expressed his aspirations for renewed relations and economic partnerships that could allow both Lebanese and Saudis to reconnect and benefit mutually.
He outlined a vision for economic collaboration aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy. Additionally, Aoun has reiterated his commitment to reestablishing state authority over arms in Lebanon, where Hezbollah remains prevalent, as well as pursuing a policy of positive neutrality with Arab nations. He has also been invited to an urgent Arab summit regarding Gaza, convened by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sissi, which he plans to attend.
President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant step toward revitalizing Lebanon’s bilateral relations with the kingdom, especially in terms of military and economic cooperation. Aoun’s commitment to positive neutrality and strengthening state authority over arms underscores his intentions to stabilize Lebanon amid ongoing challenges. His dialogue with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman could potentially pave the way for collaborative agreements that benefit both nations.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
