President Joseph Aoun will request the reinstatement of a $3-billion aid package from Saudi Arabia for the Lebanese army during his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The grant was previously halted in 2016 due to Lebanon’s unresolved diplomatic issues with Saudi Arabia. Aoun hopes to strengthen ties and secure economic aid in light of Lebanon’s reconstruction requirements.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun will seek the reactivation of a $3-billion aid package for the Lebanese army during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia. This meeting, which marks Aoun’s first international trip following his election on January 9, is scheduled with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Aoun expressed his hope that Riyadh could reconsider reactivating the grant which was halted in 2016 due to Lebanon’s inaction against attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.
Historically, Saudi Arabia had invested significantly in Lebanon’s stabilization, aiding reconstruction efforts in regions impacted by conflicts and influencing Lebanese political dynamics. However, with the rise of Hezbollah, supported by Iran, and the ongoing regional political shifts, the dynamics of foreign aid have changed. Notably, tensions arose following Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah and the challenging political climate surrounding Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria.
In his interview, Aoun articulated his expectations for strengthened economic and political ties with Saudi Arabia, particularly from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He stated, “I hope and I await from Saudi Arabia – and especially the Crown Prince – to correct the relationship in the interests of both countries,” underlining the mutual benefits of enhanced cooperation.
Lebanon is currently grappling with immense reconstruction needs stemming from a year of conflict. Nonetheless, both Lebanese officials and international diplomats underscore that foreign assistance, especially from Gulf nations, is dependent upon Lebanon pursuing long-needed financial reforms. Aoun assured that Lebanon is committed to implementing these reforms, expressing hope that international aid for reconstruction would arrive progressively, facilitating the return of displaced citizens to their homes in the south.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun is poised to engage Saudi Arabia in discussions to revive a vital $3-billion aid package for the Lebanese army. With historical ties and regional dynamics shaping the relationship, Aoun’s visit aims to restore cooperation that addresses Lebanon’s urgent needs as the country strives for financial reform and reconstruction following recent conflicts.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
