Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia, meeting Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on his first foreign trip. His election ended a political void in Lebanon and aimed to repair strained relations with Riyadh. Discussions focused on military aid and economic ties, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Aoun pledged a unified state and positive neutrality in foreign relations, while also attending an upcoming Arab summit in Cairo.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun embarked on his inaugural foreign trip since assuming office, meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. His election on January 9 marked the end of a prolonged political impasse, following significant unrest and economic turmoil in Lebanon. Aoun’s election was influenced by the diminished influence of Hezbollah amidst ongoing regional conflicts.
During the meeting, the Saudi Press Agency reported general discussions took place, but further details were not provided. President Aoun expressed optimism regarding these discussions on social media, indicating his eagerness for productive dialogue with the Crown Prince. He aims to establish stronger cooperation, potentially leading to agreements that enhance bilateral relations.
Relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia have faced strain, especially after Saudi Arabia suspended military assistance to Lebanon’s army in 2016 due to Hezbollah’s political dominance. Aoun expressed hopes of revitalizing military aid to Lebanon. He emphasized the importance of his visit to Saudi Arabia, noting the historical ties and the Kingdom’s role as a significant regional power.
He articulated intentions of creating normal economic relations and aligning Lebanon with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an economic diversification initiative. By fostering these connections, Aoun aims to encourage Saudi investments in Lebanon, highlighting a mutual benefit for both nations. He also discussed his vision for a unified Lebanese state with exclusive control over weapons, as Hezbollah remains the only armed group in the country, following the civil war.
Moreover, Aoun has committed to adopting a foreign policy focused on “positive neutrality” and maintaining amicable ties with Arab nations. He has also received an invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to join an urgent Arab summit regarding Gaza, further demonstrating his active engagement in regional diplomacy.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a strategic effort to mend frayed bilateral relations after years of political tension. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman aim to lay the groundwork for enhanced military and economic cooperation. Aoun’s determined approach to fostering relations with Arab states, including an upcoming summit in Cairo, signals a renewed focus on diplomatic engagement for Lebanon’s stability and growth.
Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae
