Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, establishing a new era of cooperation between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations, economic reforms, and security issues, especially concerning the presence of Israeli forces in Lebanon. Aoun’s invitation for the crown prince to visit Lebanon was well received, and the importance of unity among Arab nations was reiterated during the talks.
In a pivotal meeting in Riyadh, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman established a new foundation for relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. This is the first official Lebanese visit to the Kingdom in eight years. Aoun expressed gratitude for King Salman’s historical support of Lebanon.
The discussions, held at Al-Yamamah Palace, included significant attendees such as Saudi ministers and Lebanese officials, with the aim of enhancing bilateral cooperation and paving the way for future agreements. Aoun and the crown prince engaged in a private conversation lasting 45 minutes, focusing on mutual interests.
A joint statement emphasized the importance of Arab collaboration, including the full implementation of the Taif Agreement and Lebanese sovereignty. The need to bolster the Lebanese Army and ensure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon was also highlighted. Both leaders identified the urgency of Lebanon’s economic reform and recovery process.
Aoun invited Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Lebanon, which was positively received. A source informed Arab News about the need for extensive reforms in Lebanon, emphasizing that the resumption of exports to Saudi Arabia might require three months. The visit was deemed exceptional, presenting Lebanon with a chance to foster stronger Arab relations through Saudi Arabia.
The discussions included Lebanon’s economic viability and security mechanisms to ensure investment confidence. Following the Riyadh visit, Aoun attended an Arab League summit in Cairo, where he conferred with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres about multiple issues, including the presence of Israeli forces in southern Lebanon.
Aoun underscored the importance of Arab solidarity while also addressing energy cooperation with Iraq. Furthermore, Israeli forces escalated their incursions, which included a lethal drone strike in the Tyre district, resulting in the death of a Lebanese citizen named Khadr Hashim.
The ongoing dialogue among Arab leaders showcases a collective commitment to addressing regional issues, with an emphasis on unity and cooperation across various sectors, particularly in light of Lebanon’s current challenges.
The discussions between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signify a pivotal turn in relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. The commitment to strengthening cooperation across various sectors, addressing economic challenges, and ensuring regional stability underlines the importance of bilateral relations. This meeting not only encapsulates a momentous engagement but also charts a path forward in enhancing Arab unity and addressing shared concerns, particularly concerning Lebanon’s sovereignty and economic reform.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
