Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is visiting Saudi Arabia to strengthen ties and seek support for Lebanon’s economic recovery amidst a financial crisis. Discussions will focus on revitalizing bilateral relations, addressing security issues, and enhancing economic cooperation. 22 agreements are in progress to boost trade, marking a hopeful return to stronger Saudi-Lebanese relations after years of tension.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to embark on a significant visit to Saudi Arabia on Monday. This marks his first foreign trip following his election on January 9. During this visit, he aims to garner support for Lebanon, which is currently facing a severe financial crisis exacerbated by the recent conflict with Israel.
The discussions will primarily focus on revitalizing bilateral relations, Lebanon’s economic challenges, and regional security matters, particularly Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon. Additionally, the talks will emphasize reconstruction initiatives and economic collaboration between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.
Aoun’s visit is a result of an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing Aoun’s commitment to strengthening ties with the kingdom, recognized for its historical support of Lebanon.
The relationship between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon has experienced significant strains in recent years, especially during Aoun’s presidency, influenced by Hezbollah’s growing influence. Tensions escalated further in 2021 following controversial remarks by information minister George Kordahi about Saudi involvement in Yemen, leading to diplomatic rifts.
Lebanon hopes that under Aoun’s administration, Saudi Arabia will lift restrictions, thereby aiding the struggling Lebanese economy. Notably, Saudi Arabia has re-engaged in Lebanese affairs through the Quintet Committee, which also includes Qatar and the United States, in a joint effort to stabilize Lebanon.
As Hezbollah’s influence diminishes post-conflict, Saudi Arabia may play a pivotal role in shaping Lebanon’s future. Aoun’s meeting with Prince Salman is expected to center on preventing Lebanon from becoming a conflict zone and addressing illicit exports to Gulf nations.
Preliminary discussions will also involve economic recovery, particularly from Aoun’s newly appointed government, which aims for substantial reforms and seeks to attract investment from Saudi Arabia.
Efforts are underway to finalize 22 economic agreements covering various sectors, including trade, agriculture, and defense, to enhance trade relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. The Saudi-Lebanese trade had previously yielded exports worth $700 million to $800 million annually, but this has diminished due to strained relations.
The re-establishment of trade is crucial for Lebanon’s recovery, providing essential foreign currency, boosting confidence in the economy, and generating employment opportunities. A recent high-level visit by Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud to Lebanon indicates a potential realignment in relations, fostering hope for a renewed partnership.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia seeks to rejuvenate Lebanon-Saudi relations, particularly focusing on economic recovery and regional security. With economic agreements being developed and the lifting of travel and trade restrictions anticipated, this visit could signify a turning point for Lebanon amidst its ongoing crisis. It underscores the historical ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia while aiming for a collaborative future.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
