Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss Lebanon’s economic recovery and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. They focused on enforcing international resolutions, enhancing state sovereignty, and supporting the Lebanese army. They also explored resuming trade and travel between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, vital to overcoming the ongoing diplomatic crisis and economic challenges in Lebanon due to recent conflicts.
On March 4, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman convened in Riyadh to address issues surrounding Lebanon’s economic recovery and Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories. Their discussions emphasized the necessity of implementing international resolutions and reinstating the Lebanese state’s sovereignty over its land, as stated by Lebanon’s National News Agency.
Both leaders underscored the importance of confining arms to the Lebanese state, highlighting the role and support required for the Lebanese army. They focused on the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territories, asserting that this action is crucial for national stability.
Additionally, Aoun and MbS acknowledged the pressing need for Lebanon to recover from its economic crisis and mandated the initiation of necessary reforms that adhere to principles of transparency and legal diligence. They also agreed to assess the barriers hindering the resumption of trade between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia and the necessary procedures to facilitate Saudi citizens’ travel to Lebanon.
The backdrop of their discussions includes a diplomatic rift between the two nations, which arose after critical comments by a Lebanese minister regarding Saudi military operations in Yemen, leading to halted economic initiatives since 2021. Lebanon’s economic crisis, exacerbated by financial collapse in 2019, is a pivotal concern for both leaders.
Recent military conflicts, including a brutal Israeli war against Lebanon, have further deteriorated the nation’s infrastructure and economic viability. Amid these challenges, Saudi Arabia has signaled its willingness to support Lebanon’s reconstruction under certain conditions, emphasizing oversight over aid expenditures.
In parallel, Hezbollah has initiated its own reconstruction efforts targeting affected areas in Lebanon. Despite a ceasefire, Israel remains in violation of UN Resolution 1701 by occupying various southern regions of Lebanon, a situation of ongoing concern for the Lebanese government.
President Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam maintain strong ties with Saudi Arabia, with Aoun previously fostering relations during his military leadership. These connections may prove instrumental in navigating Lebanon’s complex political and economic landscape moving forward.
In conclusion, the meetings between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman reflect a collaborative effort to address Lebanon’s pressing economic challenges and the imperative of Israeli withdrawal from its territories. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sovereignty, national security, and the transformative reforms needed for recovery, thereby establishing a pathway towards enhanced Lebanese-Saudi relations and broader stability.
Original Source: thecradle.co
