Lebanese President Michel Aoun visited Saudi Arabia to improve ties and discuss Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Both nations emphasized that only the Lebanese state should wield arms. The discussions also targeted resuming Saudi investments in Lebanon and encouraging tourism, crucial for the Lebanese economy’s recovery amid ongoing regional tensions and the aftermath of Hezbollah’s conflicts with Israel.
During a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Lebanese President Michel Aoun engaged in talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding regional issues. The discussions emphasized the imperative for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon, maintaining that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons. This summit reflects growing relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia amid strained dynamics in the region.
Aoun’s relationship with Saudi Arabia dates back to his tenure as an army commander, and there is hope for improved trade relations and the resumption of Saudi tourism to Lebanon following his presidency. The meeting at Yamama Palace focused on enhancing cooperation between the two nations and addressing Lebanon’s political stability.
The backdrop of these discussions includes Hezbollah’s set-backs during a prolonged conflict with Israel, culminating in a ceasefire last November. Although Israel has withdrawn troops, several outposts remain, which Lebanese officials claim constitutes a breach of the ceasefire agreement.
A joint statement from Lebanon and Saudi Arabia underscored that only state institutions may bear arms and reaffirmed the necessity for support of the Lebanese army. Both nations committed to investigating barriers hindering essential trade and promoting the return of Saudi visitors to Lebanon, essential for the Lebanese economy’s recovery from its current crisis.
Moreover, Aoun indicated that Saudi Arabia would reinstate funding for the Lebanese army, reversing a prior cessation of support in response to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran amidst regional tensions. President Aoun has expressed a determination to reform Lebanon’s economy and has invited Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon to strengthen bilateral ties further.
The discussions between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia signal a potential thaw in relations and a collective effort to restore stability and cooperation. By advocating for the withdrawal of Israeli troops and asserting that only state institutions should possess weapons, both nations aim to bolster Lebanon’s sovereignty and security. Furthermore, re-establishing trade and tourism is pivotal for Lebanon’s economic recovery, prompting further diplomatic engagements in the future.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
