Saudi Arabia and Lebanon have pledged to strengthen Arab cooperation and address trade barriers following a visit from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. They reaffirmed support for the Taif Agreement, the Lebanese Army, and discussed improving conditions for Lebanese exports and Saudi tourism. Emphasis was placed on Lebanon’s vital role in regional stability and the pressing need for economic reforms.
On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon emphasized the necessity of enhancing Arab cooperation and aligning their positions on significant regional and international matters. This commitment was articulated in a joint statement following the official visit of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to Saudi Arabia, where they underscored the importance of fully implementing the Taif Agreement, which concluded the Lebanese civil war. They also highlighted the need for state sovereignty across Lebanese territories and exclusive control of arms by the Lebanese state.
Both nations recognized the crucial role of the Lebanese Army and the importance of its support. Additionally, they called for the total withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territories. President Joseph Aoun’s visit marked his first official foreign engagement as the Lebanese president, and included extensive discussions with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman on strengthening bilateral ties.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman extended the best wishes of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman to President Aoun, while Aoun reciprocated by wishing prosperity for the Saudi people. Their discussions at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh focused on the robust relations between the two countries and potential avenues for further collaboration, particularly regarding Lebanon’s significant role in the Arab region.
The leaders discussed essential regional and global developments, agreeing on the imperative of enhancing Arab coordination on major issues. They examined barriers impeding the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia while also contemplating strategies to ease travel for Saudi citizens visiting Lebanon. The statement reiterated Lebanon’s commitment to President Aoun’s vision for stability and reform, as articulated in his inaugural address.
Both nations stressed the pressing need for Lebanon’s economic recovery through essential reforms, adherence to transparency, and the enforcement of binding legal measures. The talks reflected a shared aspiration for a stable and prosperous future for Lebanon and a commitment to collective Arab security and cooperation.
In conclusion, the meeting between President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia underscored a strong commitment to Arab unity and cooperation on regional issues. The discussions revolved around enhancing bilateral trade and travel, emphasizing the importance of Lebanon’s stability and economic recovery through necessary reforms and regional collaboration.
Original Source: www.saudigazette.com.sa
