Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that his first foreign visit will be to Saudi Arabia, following a congratulatory call from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Aoun highlighted Saudi Arabia’s historical role in supporting Lebanon and expressed his commitment to forming a government soon to stabilize relations with the international community.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced on Saturday that Saudi Arabia will be his inaugural destination for foreign visits following his recent ascent to the presidency. This declaration was confirmed by the Lebanese presidential palace, which detailed a phone conversation between President Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Crown Prince conveyed congratulations on Aoun’s election and extended an official invitation to visit Riyadh. In acknowledging this invitation, Aoun emphasized the significant role of Saudi Arabia in supporting Lebanon and affirmed the necessity of preserving Lebanon’s Arab identity in its regional interactions.
The two leaders engaged in discussions regarding recent developments and methods to fortify the longstanding and exceptional partnership between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. Additionally, President Aoun expressed his ambition to form a Lebanese government expeditiously in order to steer the nation towards stability and foster trust with the international community. In his initial engagement with Lebanon’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian, Aoun reiterated his commitment to establishing a governance framework based on justice and equality for all Lebanese citizens. Aoun’s election concluded a lengthy two-year political vacuum that began when former President Michel Aoun’s term ended in October 2022. The newly elected president indicated that parliamentary consultations to appoint a prime minister would commence on Monday.
The political landscape in Lebanon has been marked by instability, particularly following the end of President Michel Aoun’s term in October 2022. A prolonged vacuum in leadership has exacerbated the country’s economic crisis and its relations with the international community. Joseph Aoun’s recent election symbolizes a potential turn towards restoring governance and regional alliances. His prompt intention to visit Saudi Arabia highlights the strategic significance of bilateral relations and Lebanon’s historical ties to the Arab world, especially in the context of international support and cooperation.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s intention to visit Saudi Arabia as his first foreign engagement illustrates the importance he places on Lebanon’s relationship with the Kingdom. This visit serves as a reaffirmation of Saudi Arabia’s vital role in supporting Lebanon amidst ongoing challenges. Furthermore, Aoun’s commitment to establishing a government promptly signifies a focus on national unity and collaboration with the international community to restore stability in Lebanon.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
