Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized a new era in Lebanon-Saudi Arabia relations following discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The two leaders agreed on boosting cooperation across sectors and addressing Lebanon’s economic recovery. Aoun’s subsequent engagements in Cairo included talks on regional stability and Lebanese sovereignty amid ongoing Israeli activities.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that his discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have established a robust foundation for a new phase in their bilateral relations. This marked the first official Lebanese visit to Saudi Arabia in eight years, and the two leaders have agreed to enhance cooperation across various sectors following their meeting at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
Aoun expressed his gratitude towards King Salman for his historic support for Lebanon in a telegram sent prior to his departure to Cairo. During the meeting, both parties engaged in extensive talks, attended by prominent officials from both nations, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing bilateral ties and signing several agreements in diverse fields.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that Aoun and bin Salman focused on several crucial points, including the importance of the Taif Agreement and the need for the Lebanese state to maintain sovereignty over its territory, with an exclusive right to arms.” They also discussed ways to facilitate trade and travel between the two countries, alongside Lebanon’s urgent need for economic recovery and reform.
Aoun invited the Crown Prince to visit Lebanon, an invitation that received warm acknowledgment from the Saudi leader. A source familiar with the Riyadh discussions indicated a collective recognition of the need for reforms to gain international support for Lebanon.
Rabih El-Amine, chairman of the Lebanese Executives Council, emphasized the significance of this visit, suggesting that it offers Lebanon a unique opportunity to re-establish relationships with Arab nations with Saudi Arabia being a key partner. He noted that economic recovery depends on stabilizing the environment for investments and restoring international confidence in Lebanon’s banking sector.
After leaving Riyadh, Aoun attended an Arab League summit in Cairo, where he met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and discussed various topics, including Israeli presence in Lebanon and the return of Syrian refugees. Guterres reiterated the importance of Lebanese sovereignty, echoing concerns about the Israeli military’s role in the region.
Aoun also engaged in discussions with other Arab leaders, asserting the importance of unity among Arab nations. Meanwhile, escalations in Israeli actions against Lebanese territory continued, further complicating regional stability.
In conclusion, the recent visit of President Aoun to Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment in Lebanese-Saudi relations, aiming to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussions underscore the urgent need for reforms in Lebanon to facilitate economic recovery and regional stability. Both leaders’ commitment to addressing key bilateral and regional issues provides hope for improved diplomatic relations and a stronger Lebanese state. The ongoing challenges from external forces further necessitate regional solidarity and cooperation.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
