On Saturday, Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati pledged to strengthen ties and cooperate on mutual interests, marking the first visit by a Lebanese leader to Damascus since the civil war erupted in 2011. The leaders emphasized the need for dialogue regarding refugee returns and border cooperation, aiming to reestablish a productive and respectful relationship following years of tension between the two nations.
On Saturday, in a significant diplomatic gesture, the newly appointed Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati committed to forging a stronger bond between their countries. This marked a pivotal moment as it was the first visit of a Lebanese head of government to Damascus since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. Following a period of turmoil in both nations, highlighted by the recent replacement of Bashar al-Assad, the leaders expressed their intention to redefine relations based on mutual respect and collaboration.
Prime Minister Mikati’s visit occurs shortly after the election of Lebanon’s new president, Joseph Aoun, after a protracted two-year deadlock. Sharaa articulated the hope of a new chapter in Syrian-Lebanese relations, emphasizing, “There will be long-term strategic relations between us and Lebanon. We and Lebanon have great shared interests.” He indicated that the focus would be on stability and cooperation, stating, “It is time to give the Syrian and Lebanese people a chance to build a positive relationship.”
Both leaders acknowledged the longstanding challenges that have affected their historically intertwined relations, notably the plight of approximately two million Syrian refugees currently residing in Lebanon. Mikati remarked that addressing their return to Syria is critical for both nations, which have faced overwhelming economic difficulties, particularly Lebanon. He also underscored the necessity of discussing border delineation, an issue that has long obstructed collaboration and development between the two nations.
During this meeting, the Prime Minister highlighted a mutual commitment to stringent border control to combat pervasive smuggling, reflecting a shared interest in enhancing security and sovereignty. This momentous occasion follows increasing international diplomatic engagement with Damascus, signalling a potential resurgence of Syria’s role in regional affairs. As the specter of past conflicts recedes, both nations appear poised to engage in meaningful dialogue that could reshape their bilateral relations and foster stability in the region.
The background to this meeting between Syria and Lebanon is rooted in decades of complex interrelations shaped by war, politics, and regional dynamics. Syria exercised significant influence over Lebanon for thirty years, particularly during Lebanon’s civil war (1975-1990) and afterward through military presence until 2005. Following the start of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Lebanon’s previous administrations have hesitated to engage with Syria due to domestic pressures, especially from factions opposing the Assad regime, like Hezbollah. Recent changes in leadership have provided an opportunity to revisit these relations for potential collaboration on pressing issues, including security, economic recovery, and humanitarian crises stemming from the refugee situation.
In conclusion, the recent meeting between the leaders of Syria and Lebanon marks a critical turning point in their diplomatic relationship following years of conflict and strain. Both Ahmed al-Sharaa and Najib Mikati are setting forth a commitment to mutual respect, collaboration, and resolution of longstanding challenges, including the presence of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Their discussions on economic and border issues reflect a renewed willingness to address past grievances and forge a path toward stability in their intertwined futures.
Original Source: thesun.my
