Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia on March 3, 2025, for discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Their talks focused on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon and reiterated that only the Lebanese state should possess arms. This visit marks a thaw in relations after years of tension and emphasizes necessary economic reforms to bolster the Lebanese economy.
On March 3, 2025, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of state in eight years. During his discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, they addressed regional issues, emphasizing that Israeli forces should withdraw from Lebanon and stripped Hezbollah of its weaponry, insisting that only the Lebanese state should retain such rights. This meeting signifies an improvement in relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, which have been strained due to Iran’s influence in Lebanon.
The discussions also highlighted Lebanon’s economic troubles and the need for an agreement to resume Lebanese imports to Saudi Arabia. Notably, Aoun expressed hope for the revival of a $3 billion military aid package from Saudi Arabia, which had previously been suspended due to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran. Furthermore, both leaders agreed on the necessity for Beirut to implement reforms demanded by the international community and invited each other to visit their respective countries.
Aoun was received at Yamama Palace in Riyadh, where the leaders discussed strategies for enhancing bilateral relations, particularly after Hezbollah’s limitations following a prolonged conflict with Israel. The joint statement post-meeting reiterated that only the Lebanese army should hold arms, while also acknowledging the importance of supporting state institutions. Aoun’s election as president and the recent appointment of Nawaf Salam as prime minister represent pivotal shifts aimed at reforming Lebanon’s approach towards its Arab neighbors and enhancing internal governance.
President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia heralds a potential thaw in relations between Lebanon and the kingdom, marking a shift in diplomatic ties that have been historically fraught. Their discussions centered on regional security, particularly the need for Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon and the disarmament of non-state actors. Moreover, the focus on economic reforms and the resumption of imports indicates a strategic effort to stabilize Lebanon post-crisis while reinforcing ties with Saudi Arabia.
Original Source: apnews.com
