The UAE is set to reopen its embassy in Lebanon after more than three years, following President Joseph Aoun’s election. This decision aims to restore diplomatic relations and support Lebanon’s stability. The announcement coincided with a recent agreement to extradite an individual critical of Gulf Arab states, indicating a thawing of tensions and a potential new chapter for Lebanon’s foreign relations.
On Monday, a senior delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) visited Lebanon to prepare for the reopening of the UAE embassy in Beirut, which has been closed for more than three years. This decision follows the election of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who has been working on mending relations with countries such as the UAE. The UAE previously closed its embassy in October 2021 after tensions arose within the region concerning Hezbollah and the Saudi-led coalition’s engagement in Yemen.
The UAE Embassy had been shut down in response to Lebanese officials’ remarks that criticized the Saudi-led coalition’s actions in Yemen, alongside heightened concerns regarding Hezbollah’s role in Lebanese politics. The Saudi foreign minister highlighted Hezbollah’s significant influence over Lebanon, designating the group as a terrorist organization amidst ongoing conflicts with Israel.
During the delegation’s visit, a dialogue ensued between President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Joseph Aoun regarding the necessity of reopening the embassy. The UAE Foreign Ministry has expressed that the embassy’s reopening signifies the UAE’s commitment to promoting stability and development within Lebanon and providing substantial support to the Lebanese populace across various sectors.
Lebanese deputy parliament speaker Elias Bou Saab praised the diplomatic shift, stating, “The UAE will reopen its embassy very soon thus there is hope for us to start a new page in Lebanon.” Recently, Lebanon also agreed to extradite Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi, who was apprehended for making critical statements online regarding the Gulf states. This move may further indicate a thawing of relations between Lebanon and Gulf nations, potentially paving the way for future cooperation.
The decision to reopen the UAE embassy in Lebanon comes after a tumultuous period marked by strained diplomatic relations between the two countries. The UAE, aligning its position with Saudi Arabia, had previously withdrawn diplomatic personnel in response to Lebanon’s political dynamics, particularly concerning Hezbollah’s influence and statements made by Lebanese officials against the Saudi-led coalition. Since then, Lebanese officials, including the new President Joseph Aoun, have expressed a desire to restore diplomatic ties with Gulf states, viewing the UAE’s reopening of its embassy as a positive step towards regional stability and support for Lebanon’s development.
The impending reopening of the UAE embassy in Lebanon signifies a potential turnaround in diplomatic relations between the two nations. It reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering stability in Lebanon and offering comprehensive support to its citizens. With high-level discussions signaling a willingness to mend ties, there exists renewed hopes for regional cooperation and stability moving forward, particularly as Lebanon navigates complex political challenges.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
