Saudi Arabia is reviewing the possibility of resuming imports from Lebanon and lifting its travel ban on Saudi nationals, following a meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This represents a potential thaw in relations after years of tension, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s influence. The discussions also included regional security matters involving Israel.
Saudi Arabia is contemplating the resumption of imports from Lebanon and the lifting of its travel ban on Saudi nationals visiting the country. This decision follows a meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, marking Aoun’s first official trip abroad since assuming the presidency in January.
The two governments released a joint statement outlining their agreement to investigate the barriers to re-establishing trade and facilitating Saudi travel to Lebanon. Notably, Saudi Arabia suspended imports of Lebanese fruits and vegetables in April 2021, citing drug smuggling concerns and accusing the Lebanese government of failing to act.
Historically, Saudi Arabia was a significant importer of Lebanese agricultural products, accounting for over 22% of Lebanon’s exports in 2019. Nonetheless, strained relations have necessitated official government approval for Saudi citizens wishing to travel to Lebanon since the ban was enacted.
During their discussions, the two nations also emphasized the need for the Israeli military to withdraw from Lebanese territories, referencing a ceasefire agreement from November. Despite this, recent statements from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz indicated a commitment to maintaining troop presence in a designated territory.
Aoun’s visit, the first by a Lebanese head of state to Saudi Arabia in eight years, also included discussions on potentially reviving military aid suspended by Riyadh in 2016 due to Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon. Aoun expressed his intention to explore opportunities for reactivating this support.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s potential resumption of imports from Lebanon and travel by its citizens marks a significant shift in relations between the two nations. This development follows the recent diplomatic engagement initiated by President Aoun’s visit to Riyadh, reflecting renewed interest from Saudi Arabia in Lebanese affairs. The discussions also touched upon broader regional issues, underscoring the complexity of Middle Eastern geopolitics.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
