Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia to strengthen relations and reactivate a $3 billion military aid package. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aim to restore trade ties and support reconstruction efforts in Lebanon. Aoun’s election followed a political vacuum and reflects a shifting landscape in Lebanese politics, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s influence. Aoun’s choice of Saudi Arabia highlights historic ties and hopes for mutual cooperation.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun recently made history by becoming the first head of state from Lebanon to visit Riyadh in six years, where he engaged in discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This visit aims to improve diplomatic relations and explore avenues for restoring trade connections and reconstruction initiatives following Lebanon’s recent turmoil. Aoun mentioned that this trip would reactivate a significant $3 billion package for the Lebanese military, emphasizing the economic benefits of improved bilateral relations.
During his visit, Aoun highlighted the importance of Lebanese-Saudi relations, stating that it served as a platform to express Lebanon’s gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s support in maintaining stability and the functionality of Lebanon’s constitutional institutions. This meeting follows a recent trip to Beirut by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, indicating a possible thaw in the long-strained relations between the two nations.
President Aoun, a former military leader elected on January 9, emerged during a critical time after a prolonged political vacuum resulting from a severe economic crisis. He is perceived as having close ties with both Riyadh and Washington. His election was partly facilitated by the diminished influence of Hezbollah amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel, paving a way for potential bipartisan support.
With ongoing efforts to reconnect, Lebanon remains optimistic that Saudi Arabia will lift its travel restrictions on the economically troubled nation, restore trade, and contribute to reconstruction efforts necessitated by the devastation caused by the conflict with Hezbollah. The longstanding relationship between these nations has been fraught, particularly since Riyadh suspended a $3 billion military aid package in 2016 due to the political sway of Hezbollah.
Aoun expressed his choice of Saudi Arabia as his inaugural foreign visit, citing the nation’s “historic links” with Lebanon and its significant role on regional and global stages. He voiced hope for the resetting of relations beneficial to both countries, emphasizing the need to overcome existing barriers.
President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal moment for Lebanon in its quest to restore bilateral ties and economic support. This engagement may lead to the revival of military assistance and signify a commitment towards mutual growth and stability in both nations. As Lebanon navigates its political and economic challenges, Saudi support could prove crucial in rebuilding and nurturing regional relations.
Original Source: economymiddleeast.com
