In a historic visit following Bashar al-Assad’s exit from power, Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati agreed to establish long-term strategic relations. They discussed key issues such as managing Syrian refugees in Lebanon and delineating land and maritime borders. This meeting reflects a crucial step towards rebuilding ties between the two nations that have been historically intertwined but strained by conflict.
Syria’s new ruler, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati met recently in Damascus, marking Lebanon’s first governmental visit to Syria since the civil conflict erupted in 2011. Following the recent ousting of Bashar al-Assad, the leaders articulated their commitment to forging enduring bilateral ties, with Sharaa stating, “There will be long-term strategic relations between us and Lebanon. We and Lebanon have great shared interests.” This meeting comes amid hopes for a revitalized relationship, tackling issues such as the substantial number of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and the delineation of borders between the two nations.
The discussions highlighted Lebanon’s imperative for “mutual respect, equality and national sovereignty” while addressing the pressing need to manage the influx of approximately two million Syrian refugees that have strained Lebanon’s resources amid an ongoing economic crisis. Prime Minister Mikati emphasized the urgency for proper border delineation, aiming to facilitate offshore gas extraction operations and curb smuggling activities across the porous border.
The strained relationship between Syria and Lebanon has deep historical roots, marked by Syrian military intervention in Lebanon’s civil war from 1975 to 1990, and leading to significant Lebanese dependency on Syrian influence for decades. The death of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has created a new political landscape in which Lebanese officials, previously reluctant to engage, now seek mutual cooperation. This includes addressing humanitarian issues stemming from the Syrian conflict, as well as establishing clear borders to enhance national sovereignty and economic potential for both countries.
In conclusion, the pledges made by Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanon’s Najib Mikati signify a pivotal moment in the regional dynamics post-Assad. With commitments to build long-term strategic relations, tackle refugee issues, and better manage border security, both nations appear poised to entering a new chapter in their historical interplay. The future of Syria and Lebanon hinges on their ability to communicate effectively and address their mutual challenges through dialogue and collaboration.
Original Source: www.france24.com
