Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will visit Saudi Arabia to revive support for his country, addressing economic crises and regional security issues. This marks Aoun’s first international trip after his election, emphasizing the need to strengthen bilateral ties and seek Saudi investment and cooperation. Recent diplomatic engagements suggest a potential improvement in Saudi-Lebanese relations aimed at economic recovery and political stability.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to make a significant visit to Saudi Arabia on Monday, aimed at bolstering support for Lebanon amidst its ongoing financial crisis and the repercussions of last year’s conflict with Israel. This trip marks his maiden international engagement since his election on January 9, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations, addressing Lebanon’s economic difficulties, and discussing regional security concerns, especially the ongoing Israeli occupation of southern Lebanese territories.
The visit, initiated by an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscores Aoun’s commitment to prioritizing Saudi Arabia, which has historically supported Lebanon and its aspirations for Arab solidarity. Following his engagements in Riyadh, President Aoun plans to attend an Arab Summit in Egypt.
The history of Saudi-Lebanese relations reveals a complex backdrop, particularly regarding Saudi Arabia’s role in Lebanon’s political framework, including its involvement in the 1989 Taif Agreement that helped conclude Lebanon’s devastating civil conflict. Over recent years, however, ties have strained, especially during former President Michel Aoun’s tenure due to the increasing influence of Hezbollah and the Kingdom’s perception of the group as a security threat, culminating in a near-total diplomatic and economic rift.
Relations deteriorated dramatically in late 2021 when former Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi made remarks critical of Saudi Arabia’s Yemen involvement, resulting in Saudi Arabia removing its ambassador and expelling Lebanon’s envoy. In response to ongoing security concerns, Riyadh had previously restricted Lebanese food imports and advised its citizens against travel to Lebanon, decisions that have exacerbated Lebanon’s economic plight.
In light of these challenges, Lebanon now hopes that Aoun’s new administration will help mend fences with Saudi Arabia, potentially leading to the lifting of these restrictions and providing much-needed economic relief. Notably, Saudi Arabia has recently re-engaged with Lebanon via the Quintet Committee, further signaling a willingness to support Lebanon’s stability and recovery, particularly after significant shifts in the regional dynamics involving Hezbollah.
Aoun’s meeting with Crown Prince Salman is anticipated to emphasize non-involvement of Lebanon in regional conflicts and illicit activities that could jeopardize Gulf nations. Additionally, discussions will revolve around economic recovery strategies under the guidance of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, who is committed to implementing extensive reforms aimed at reviving the Lebanese economy.
Efforts to strengthen economic ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia have led to the formulation of 22 new agreements encompassing critical sectors such as trade, agriculture, education, and defense. Though these agreements are awaiting finalization, most logistical and legal processes have been addressed. Previously, Lebanon exported goods worth approximately $700 million to $800 million annually to Saudi Arabia, with the cessation of trade creating severe economic ramifications amid Lebanon’s systemic financial crisis that began in 2019.
A recovery in trade with Saudi Arabia is essential for Lebanon’s economic revival, promising to restore foreign currency inflow, instill confidence in public and private sectors, and foster job creation opportunities. A notable milestone occurred when Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud visited Beirut on January 23, representing the highest-level Saudi visit to Lebanon in 15 years, signaling a potential rejuvenation of bilateral ties.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s forthcoming visit to Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal moment for Lebanon, seeking to revitalize bilateral relations and garner support amid a profound economic crisis. The focus will be on economic cooperation, security concerns, and reconstruction efforts, aiming to mitigate the challenges faced by Lebanon. Historically significant ties have been strained, but recent developments hint at a potential thaw in relations, crucial for Lebanon’s recovery efforts.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
