Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed resuming imports from Lebanon and lifting travel restrictions for Saudi nationals. Saudi Arabia previously banned Lebanese imports in 2021 due to drug smuggling concerns. The two nations are also addressing the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories and exploring military cooperation as part of their evolving diplomatic relationship.
Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in revisiting its import restrictions on Lebanon and lifting the travel ban for Saudi citizens visiting the country. This decision follows a meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in Riyadh, marking Aoun’s initial international trip since assuming office in January 2023. Both governments have agreed to evaluate the impediments related to resuming Lebanese exports and facilitating travel for Saudi nationals.
Previously, Saudi Arabia suspended imports of Lebanese fruits and vegetables in April 2021, citing concerns over drug smuggling and accusing Lebanon of failing to address the issue. In 2019, Saudi Arabia accounted for 22.1 percent of Lebanese agricultural exports, making it the leading destination for these goods. Since the ban was implemented, travel from Saudi Arabia to Lebanon has required government authorization due to deteriorating relations between the two nations.
During discussions, the two nations also addressed the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories, underscoring their agreement on the necessity of the Israeli forces’ withdrawal. Following a ceasefire in November, tensions have persisted, with Israeli officials asserting that troops will remain in a designated “buffer zone” beyond a deadline for their removal.
In a bid to strengthen ties, President Aoun signaled his intention to explore possibilities for reinstating military aid from Saudi Arabia, which had ceased in 2016 amid concerns over Hezbollah’s influence. Aoun’s visit marks the first occasion in eight years that a Lebanese head of state has traveled to Saudi Arabia, indicating a potential shift in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The meeting between President Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signifies a potential thaw in relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon, particularly regarding trade and travel. The discussion on resuming imports and lifting the travel ban reflects Saudi Arabia’s renewed interest in Lebanese affairs post-Hezbollah’s diminished influence. Ultimately, the successful resolution of these issues could foster improved bilateral relations moving forward.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
