President Michel Aoun of Lebanon concluded an important visit to Saudi Arabia where he discussed regional stability and bilateral relations with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The leaders agreed on the necessity of Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon and the exclusive right of the Lebanese state to possess arms. Additionally, they addressed the economic challenges facing Lebanon and considered measures to resume imports from Lebanon and support Saudi tourism.
BEIRUT — The President of Lebanon, Michel Aoun, concluded a visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, where discussions were held with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding regional matters. Following their meeting, both nations issued a statement calling for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, asserting that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons. This stance reinforces Lebanon’s commitment to state sovereignty in contrast to Hezbollah’s influence.
Historically, Aoun has visited Saudi Arabia multiple times during his tenure as army commander, and many Lebanese citizens harbor hopes that his presidency will facilitate the lifting of Saudi import bans on Lebanese goods, as well as promote travel for Saudi nationals to Lebanon. Aoun’s visit is particularly significant in the wake of Hezbollah’s recent military setbacks during ongoing conflicts with Israel.
During his visit, Aoun and Crown Prince Salman also discussed ways to enhance relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. According to the state-run Saudi Press Agency, Aoun highlighted the importance of supporting the Lebanese army and restoring stability in the region. This follows Israel’s withdrawal of some troops from Lebanon in February but the retention of five posts within the nation’s territory, which Lebanese officials view as a breach of the ceasefire agreement.
Significantly, Aoun has announced plans for Saudi Arabia to reactivate a $3 billion defense package intended for the Lebanese military, which had been placed on hold since 2016 due to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran. The leaders also expressed their commitment to resolving existing barriers that affect the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and facilitating the return of Saudi tourists.
Moreover, the discussions centered on addressing Lebanon’s economic crisis and the steps that must be undertaken to initiate necessary reforms as demanded by the international community. Aoun extended an invitation to Crown Prince Salman to visit Lebanon, an offer that was warmly received. Both leaders recognized the urgency to collaborate effectively to enhance bilateral relations.
Finally, Aoun’s election and the appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam follow a significant political void and are viewed as a potential opportunity to improve Lebanon’s relations with its Arab counterparts and fortify necessary reforms to stabilize the nation’s economy, marking a notable setback for Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanese politics.
In conclusion, President Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment for Lebanon’s diplomatic relations and security posture. The discussions emphasized the need for Israeli troop withdrawal, the exclusive right of the Lebanese state to wield arms, and the revival of economic ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Aoun’s administration appears to advocate for reforms that may potentially unify Lebanon under state authority and restore its fragile economy, while simultaneously challenging Hezbollah’s dominance.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
