Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun visited Saudi Arabia to strengthen bilateral relations and discussed the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon. Both nations agreed that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons and emphasized the need for Saudi support for the Lebanese army. Aoun aims to lift import bans and attract Saudi tourists amidst Lebanon’s economic crisis.
In a bid to foster improved relations, Lebanon’s President Michel Aoun concluded a visit to Saudi Arabia, where discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman addressed regional matters. Both nations emphasized the necessity for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, reiterating that only the Lebanese state should maintain armed forces.
Aoun’s previous visits to Saudi Arabia when he served as army commander have instilled hope in Lebanon for lifting Saudi import bans and reviving travel opportunities for Saudi citizens to Lebanon. His recent meeting with the Crown Prince at Yamama Palace underscored the status of Lebanon and the objective of enhancing bilateral ties.
This diplomatic engagement follows Hezbollah’s severe setbacks during a conflict with Israel, marked by substantial loss of its leaders. Despite Israel’s withdrawal of numerous troops from Lebanon, it retained five positions deemed as violations of a ceasefire agreement.
A statement released after the summit asserted that only state institutions in Lebanon should wield arms, underscoring support for the Lebanese army and calling for Israel to withdraw from all Lebanese territories. Furthermore, Aoun indicated that Saudi Arabia might reactivate a significant military aid commitment for Lebanon’s armed forces.
The joint declaration also committed both nations to addressing hurdles to the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and facilitating travel for Saudi citizens to Lebanon. They concurred on the importance of reviving the beleaguered Lebanese economy and implementing essential reforms as mandated by the international community.
In summary, President Aoun’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia is a significant step towards improving bilateral relations between Lebanon and the kingdom. The discussions focused on crucial regional issues, particularly the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the empowerment of Lebanese state forces. Furthermore, renewed support for the Lebanese army and the potential easing of import restrictions signal a positive shift in diplomatic ties following a challenging period for Lebanon.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
