Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati have pledged to improve bilateral relations during Mikati’s first visit to Damascus since the Syrian civil war began in 2011. They discussed mutual interests, border issues, and the urgent need to address the Syrian refugee crisis in Lebanon. Both leaders emphasized dialogue and collaboration for future stability.
During a historic visit, Prime Minister Najib Mikati of Lebanon affirmed his commitment to strengthening ties with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of government to Damascus since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011. This diplomatic engagement follows recent developments, including the fall of President Bashar al-Assad and the election of a new Lebanese president after a prolonged political deadlock. Both leaders expressed their intentions to establish robust strategic relations based on mutual respect and shared interests, emphasizing the need for dialogue and negotiation in resolving bilateral matters.
The new leadership in Syria looks to mend relations with Lebanon, harkening back to their historical ties strained by the civil war and Hezbollah’s support for Assad. Sharaa highlighted the urgency for civil interaction, suggesting that the new administration under President Joseph Aoun could provide a conducive environment for fostering stability in Lebanon. Furthermore, both officials acknowledged the pressing issue of the approximately two million Syrian refugees in Lebanon and underscored the necessity for their eventual return as a mutual priority that can benefit both nations.
Additionally, Mikati raised the critical matter of delineating the land and maritime borders between Lebanon and Syria to enhance cooperation and curb smuggling activities. He proposed the formation of a joint committee to address border issues that have lingered since Syria’s initial military intervention in Lebanon. The two leaders displayed a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at laying a foundation for long-term peace and collaboration, moving away from the contentious past. Moreover, a recent tightening of entry regulations for Lebanese citizens into Syria has been noted, potentially reflecting underlying tensions that still require resolution.
The article provides insights into the evolving diplomatic relations between Syria and Lebanon following years of conflict and political strife. Syria exerted significant influence over Lebanon for decades, particularly during the Lebanese civil war, and has had a complicated relationship with Lebanese politics, notably due to Hezbollah’s pivotal role in supporting the Assad regime. The current situation hinges on recent political changes in both countries, including the election of a new Lebanese president and the ongoing refugee crisis, which both leaders recognize as a critical issue to address for future cooperation. Furthermore, the article highlights the geographical and logistical challenges that stem from the lack of defined borders between the two nations, contributing to illegal activities such as smuggling, which both countries are eager to curtail.
In conclusion, the meeting between Prime Minister Najib Mikati and President Ahmed al-Sharaa signals a potential thawing of relations between Lebanon and Syria after years of tension. Their commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation, particularly in addressing the refugee crisis and border delineation, reflects a mutual interest in establishing stability in the region. The two leaders’ vision for a strategic partnership based on respect and sovereign equality could herald a new era in Lebanese-Syrian relations, one that prioritizes positive outcomes for both nations.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
