Saudi Arabia and Lebanon have pledged to fortify their cooperation in addressing regional challenges. Following President Joseph Aoun’s visit, both countries committed to implementing the Taif Agreement and enhancing bilateral relations. Key discussions included facilitating Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and improving travel for Saudi citizens, aimed at promoting Lebanon’s economic recovery and stability.
On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon emphasized the value of enhanced Arab cooperation to address significant regional and international challenges. In a joint declaration following Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s official visit, both nations reiterated their dedication to the complete implementation of the Taif Agreement that concluded the Lebanese civil war, and the enforcement of relevant international resolutions. They also affirmed the necessity for state sovereignty over all Lebanese territories and recognized the importance of the Lebanese Army while calling for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon.
During his first foreign visit since taking office, President Aoun engaged in extensive discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, which was initiated by an invitation from the Crown Prince. In their meeting at Al-Yamamah Palace, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman conveyed greetings from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, expressing his hopes for Lebanon’s stability. In turn, President Aoun extended his greetings to the Saudi monarch and wished prosperity for the Saudi populace.
The discussions highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and explored potential avenues for cooperation. Both leaders affirmed Lebanon’s critical role within the Arab community, emphasizing that solid Arab relations are vital for the security and stability of Lebanon. They also reviewed the importance of coordinating efforts on major regional and global issues, recognizing the current challenges faced by Lebanon and the necessity of a unified Arab response.
The two nations agreed to identify and assess barriers to the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and examine strategies to ease travel for Saudi citizens to Lebanon. Additionally, the statement reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the governance principles outlined by President Aoun in his inaugural address, which focus on national stability and reform.
Ultimately, both nations underscored the urgent need for Lebanon’s economic recovery through the implementation of international reforms, the commitment to transparency, and the enforcement of legal measures vital for the nation’s progress.
In conclusion, the visit of President Aoun to Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal moment in reinforcing Arab cooperation and addressing critical regional issues. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to the Taif Agreement, emphasized Lebanon’s role in the Arab framework, and outlined plans to remove trade barriers and facilitate travel, reflecting a cooperative approach towards economic stability and reform in Lebanon.
Original Source: www.saudigazette.com.sa
