Lebanese President Joseph Aoun engaged in historic talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, establishing a new phase in Lebanese-Saudi relations. They agreed on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, addressing crucial reforms for Lebanon’s economic recovery, and tackling regional stability. The discussions also emphasized the significance of Arab unity and the implementation of pivotal agreements for Lebanon.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun recently completed discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which were described as establishing a robust foundation for a revitalized relationship between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. This significant meeting marked the first official Lebanese visit to the Kingdom in eight years, during which the two nations committed to enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors. Upon departing Saudi Arabia for Cairo, President Aoun expressed profound gratitude for King Salman’s historical support for Lebanon and its people.
The discussions took place at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, attended by various Saudi officials, including Minister of State Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd, and on the Lebanese side, Foreign Minister Youssef Raji. The agenda focused on strengthening bilateral relations, laying the groundwork for the signing of numerous agreements, and discussing mutual interests.
In a joint statement following the meeting, both countries emphasized the necessity of reinforcing Arab cooperation and coordinating stances on key regional issues. They highlighted the importance of implementing the Taif Agreement and addressing Lebanon’s sovereignty, particularly concerning arms possession by the Lebanese state and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
Additionally, Aoun and the Crown Prince acknowledged the pressing need for reforms in Lebanon to facilitate economic recovery and international support. Aoun invited the Crown Prince to visit Lebanon, which was warmly received. A source close to the discussions indicated a shared recognition of the essential reforms needed to rejuvenate Lebanon’s economy and the reestablishment of trade exports to Saudi Arabia.
Rabih El-Amine, chairman of the Lebanese Executives Council, articulated the historical significance of the visit, asserting that it provided Lebanon with a unique opportunity to enhance relations with Arab nations, particularly through Saudi Arabia. He stressed that stable conditions are requisite for the resumption of Saudi tourism and investments in Lebanon, calling for a strong governance framework to ensure security and judiciary independence.
Following his time in Saudi Arabia, Aoun attended an Arab League summit in Cairo, where he engaged with various Arab and UN officials, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. During this meeting, Aoun reiterated concerns regarding the Israeli military presence in Lebanon, which he claimed could hinder regional stability.
In addition, Aoun discussed the return of Syrian refugees with Guterres, who expressed the importance of adhering to Lebanon’s sovereignty while reaffirming the need for economic revitalization and the absence of foreign military forces, except for the UN peacekeeping forces. Aoun continued his diplomatic engagements in Cairo, finding solidarity among Arab nations imperative for regional cooperation.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s recent discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have signified a milestone in Lebanese-Saudi relations, focusing on mutual cooperation and economic recovery efforts. Both leaders acknowledged pressing reforms in Lebanon as crucial for future support and stability. The dialogue emphasized national sovereignty and the implementation of critical agreements that aim to enhance bilateral ties. The outcomes of this visit are poised to reshape Lebanon’s relations within the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
