Syria and Lebanon’s leaders committed to strengthening ties during a historic meeting, focusing on mutual interests, refugee issues, border demarcation, and joint cooperation to address regional challenges, following years of strained relations amid the Syrian civil war.
Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, expressed a commitment to establish lasting relations with Lebanon during the first visit by a Lebanese Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, to Damascus since the onset of the civil war in 2011. The historic meeting occurred shortly after the election of President Joseph Aoun in Lebanon, marking a potential shift in regional dynamics. Sharaa emphasized the mutual interests of Syria and Lebanon and the necessity for constructive dialogue, reiterating aims to resolve significant issues jointly, especially concerning Syrian refugees and border demarcation disputes.
Amid past tensions fueled by Hezbollah’s alignment with the Assad regime, both leaders highlighted the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by the approximately two million Syrian refugees in Lebanon, which have deeply strained the nation amid its ongoing economic crisis. Mikati underscored the importance of establishing mutual respect while working towards clear land and maritime borders between their countries, positions Syria had long resisted under previous administrations. The leaders also acknowledged the imperatives of controlling their shared borders to combat smuggling operations, following recent security concerns.
Moreover, diplomatic engagements with Arab states have resumed, with various foreign officials visiting to restore relations with Syria after years of diplomatic isolation. The pledges made by Mikati and Sharaa appear promising in fostering a renewed spirit of cooperation between the two neighboring nations, potentially stabilizing their intertwined futures.
The context of this meeting is rooted in a long history of Syrian influence over Lebanon, particularly during the Lebanese civil war from 1975 to 1990, when Syria intervened militarily. The relationship has been historically contentious, especially after the withdrawal of Syrian troops in 2005 and Lebanon’s subsequent turbulence. Recent developments, including the end of Assad’s regime and the election of a new Lebanese president, have opened the door for renewed dialogue and cooperation, particularly as Lebanon addresses significant refugee and border issues.
The meeting between Prime Minister Najib Mikati and President Ahmed al-Sharaa marks a pivotal moment in Syrian-Lebanese relations, highlighting a mutual desire to resolve long-standing challenges. The emphasis on strategic ties and the necessity of addressing the refugee situation alongside border issues underpin a cooperative framework that could crucially influence regional stability. Both leaders have articulated a commitment to establishing relations based on respect and sovereignty, suggesting a potential new chapter in their historically fraught relationship.
Original Source: www.news-shield.com
