President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon is visiting Saudi Arabia, marking the first presidential visit in six years, aiming to strengthen ties and reactivate a $3 billion military aid package for the Lebanese army. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focus on restoring trade relations and improving bilateral cooperation. Aoun’s election helps fill a power void in Lebanon, fostering hope for renewed support from Saudi Arabia in the country’s reconstruction efforts.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has made history as the first head of state to visit Saudi Arabia in six years. During his visit to Riyadh, he engaged in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming to enhance bilateral relations and restore trade ties. A key outcome of this visit will be the reactivation of a $3 billion package intended for the Lebanese Armed Forces, as noted by President Aoun last week.
President Aoun characterized the visit as a significant opportunity to reinforce the depth of Lebanese-Saudi relations. He expressed gratitude toward Saudi Arabia for its enduring role in supporting Lebanon’s stability and the functionality of its constitutional institutions. This diplomatic engagement comes on the heels of Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan’s recent trip to Beirut.
The election of Aoun, the former army chief, concluded a prolonged political vacuum that lasted over two years amid severe political and economic turmoil in Lebanon. His election was facilitated by the diminished influence of Hezbollah following a conflict with Israel. Optimism surrounds Aoun’s relationships with Riyadh and Washington, indicating a potential shift toward renewed cooperation.
Amid thawing relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, there is hope that Saudi Arabia will lift its travel ban on Lebanon and assist with trade restoration and reconstruction efforts. Lebanon’s infrastructure has suffered significantly due to the conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel, which left vast areas in ruins. Past tensions had strained Lebanese-Saudi ties, particularly following the suspension of $3 billion in military aid in 2016, attributed to Hezbollah’s political leverage.
Aoun articulated the rationale for choosing Saudi Arabia as his inaugural destination, citing the “historic links” between the two nations and Saudi Arabia’s impact as a regional and global actor. He expressed confidence in Saudi Arabia’s ability to help foster a reset of bilateral relations, facilitating advancement for both countries while overcoming previous obstacles.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment for Lebanon as it seeks to mend relations and secure vital support. By reactivating a military aid package and strengthening trade ties, both nations can work toward enhancing stability and rebuilding Lebanon after years of conflict. This visit underscores the importance of international partnerships in overcoming regional challenges.
Original Source: economymiddleeast.com
