Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun will request the revival of a $3-billion aid package for the army during his visit to Saudi Arabia. In his first foreign trip since taking office, Aoun hopes to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the situation. He emphasizes Lebanon’s commitment to necessary reforms to secure foreign aid amidst shifting regional dynamics.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun plans to request the revival of a $3-billion aid package for the Lebanese army during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia. In an interview with Asharq television, Aoun revealed that he hopes to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday to discuss the potential reactivation of the grant, which had been suspended since 2016 due to political tensions between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.
Previously, Saudi Arabia was a significant financial supporter of Lebanon, contributing billions for reconstruction and supporting various Lebanese factions. However, the political landscape has shifted dramatically with the ascent of Hezbollah and its increasing influence, particularly with backing from Iran. The changing dynamics have raised concerns within the region, especially in light of recent Israeli military actions against Hezbollah.
In the interview, President Aoun expressed his desire for a re-establishment of relations with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the mutual benefits for both nations. He advocates for improvements in economic and political collaborations to support Lebanon’s recovery efforts following recent Israeli attacks.
Aoun stressed Lebanon’s commitment to implementing critical financial reforms needed to secure foreign aid, including support from Gulf nations. He emphasized the importance of resuming reconstruction assistance in a progressive manner to facilitate the return of displaced Lebanese citizens to their homes in the south.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal step towards re-establishing essential military support for Lebanon. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlight the need for stronger bilateral ties and indicate Lebanon’s commitment to undergoing necessary reforms to receive international aid. The evolving political landscape necessitates renewed collaboration between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia to ensure stability and recovery in the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
