Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to visit Saudi Arabia to strengthen bilateral relations and seek support for Lebanon’s economic recovery amid ongoing crises. The visit, his first since taking office, comes after an invitation from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions will particularly focus on economic cooperation, reconstruction efforts, and regional security issues, following years of strained relations due to Hezbollah’s influence.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will embark on a landmark visit to Saudi Arabia on Monday, aiming to garner support for Lebanon, which is grappling with an acute financial crisis and the repercussions of last year’s conflict with Israel. This marks Aoun’s inaugural foreign trip following his election on January 9, 2023, and it is expected to prioritize the rejuvenation of bilateral relations, the economic crisis, and regional security concerns, particularly relating to Israeli actions near Lebanon’s southern border.
The significance of this visit is underscored by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s invitation, extended promptly after Aoun’s election. Aoun has committed to making Saudi Arabia his first international destination, acknowledging the kingdom’s longstanding support for Lebanon and reinforcing Beirut’s dedication to Arab unity.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has been instrumental in Lebanon’s political landscape, especially noted for mediating the 1989 Taif Agreement that concluded Lebanon’s protracted civil war. Historically a major financial supporter, Saudi visitor numbers to Lebanon significantly decreased as relations worsened due to Hezbollah’s growing political influence, prompting Saudi Arabia to perceive this as a threat to regional stability.
The diplomatic relationship took a significant downturn in late 2021 following controversial comments by then-Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi regarding Saudi Arabia’s role in the Yemen conflict. This led to Saudi Arabia’s withdrawal of its ambassador and the expulsion of Lebanon’s envoy, alongside restrictions on Lebanese agricultural exports and travel advisories against Lebanon.
Aoun’s recent efforts aim to restore ties as he seeks the lifting of these restrictions to aid Lebanon’s beleaguered economy. Recently, Saudi Arabia has renewed its engagement in Lebanon, particularly through the Quintet Committee, which consists of regional partners, including Qatar, Egypt, France, and the United States. Saudi Arabia’s support was crucial for Aoun’s election, ending a two-year political stalemate.
With the perceived reduction of Hezbollah’s influence following recent conflicts, Saudi Arabia is anticipated to assume a more proactive role in Lebanon’s future. Aoun’s talks with Crown Prince Salman are set to emphasize the necessity for Lebanon to refrain from becoming a battleground for regional disputes and to tackle illicit trade affecting Gulf nations.
Discussions will likely revolve around economic recovery strategies, focusing on reforms promised by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who has pledged to initiate substantial changes. Lebanon is optimistic about attracting Saudi investments, seeking reconstruction assistance, and resuming commercial activities, which far-reaching implications for its struggling economy.
Lebanon and Saudi Arabia are reportedly advancing toward various economic agreements designed to revive trade and investment. A comprehensive set of 22 agreements is in preparation, addressing multiple sectors such as education, agriculture, and transportation, to enhance economic connections.
Before the deterioration of ties, Lebanon exported goods worth approximately $700 million to $800 million to Saudi Arabia each year, with trade suspension leading to massive financial setbacks amid Lebanon’s economic collapse. Resuming trade is pivotal for Lebanon’s financial recovery, with anticipated benefits including foreign currency influx, public sector confidence restoration, and job creation.
A recent high-level visit from Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud to Beirut further indicates a potential thaw in relations, signaling hope for the restoration of the Saudi-Lebanese partnership and mutual collaboration moving forward.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s imminent visit to Saudi Arabia represents a crucial step toward revitalizing Lebanon’s strained relations with the Kingdom. The visit aims to address vital economic issues and strengthens regional cooperation amid Lebanon’s ongoing financial crisis. Restoration of Saudi support and the resumption of economic ties are seen as essential for Lebanon’s recovery and stability.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
