Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun plans to request the resumption of a $3-billion military aid package from Saudi Arabia during his visit next week. This aid was suspended in 2016 due to political tensions. Aoun seeks to improve relations with Saudi Arabia to secure economic support for Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts following significant damage from Israeli strikes.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has announced plans to ask Saudi Arabia for the reactivation of a $3-billion aid package for the Lebanese army during his upcoming visit to the kingdom. This request will be made during their meeting on Monday, following President Aoun’s election on January 9. The grant has been on hold since 2016 due to Lebanon’s failure to denounce attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has invested significantly in Lebanon, contributing to its economy and supporting various Lebanese political factions. However, the rise of Hezbollah, bolstered by Iranian support, has complicated these relations. The regional landscape has shifted dramatically, especially after Israel’s military action against Hezbollah last year and the recent downfall of Hezbollah’s ally, Bashar al-Assad.
President Aoun expressed hope for a restored relationship with Saudi Arabia, particularly with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming for improved economic and political connections. He acknowledged that Lebanon’s reconstruction efforts following Israeli strikes rely heavily on foreign aid, which is contingent upon the government implementing necessary financial reforms.
Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to these reforms, anticipating a gradual influx of reconstruction aid that would facilitate the return of citizens displaced from war-impacted southern villages. He emphasized that this aid should come progressively to support Lebanon’s recovery and rebuilding efforts.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon is poised to seek the resumption of a $3-billion military aid grant from Saudi Arabia during his official visit. This aim reflects Lebanon’s broader strategy to restore essential economic and political ties amid regional changes while committing to important financial reforms to ensure international support for reconstruction.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
