Saudi Arabia is reviewing the possibility of resuming imports from Lebanon and lifting its travel ban on Saudi citizens. This decision follows a meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The discussions aim to address obstacles to trade and reflect a renewed interest in Lebanese politics since the weakening of Hezbollah.
Saudi Arabia is set to examine the potential return of imports from Lebanon and to lift the travel ban on its citizens visiting the country. This development follows discussions between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, marking Aoun’s inaugural trip abroad since assuming office in January.
The two governments released a statement outlining their commitment to addressing the “obstacles” hindering the resumption of Lebanese exports and establishing necessary measures for allowing Saudi nationals to travel to Lebanon. This dialogue occurs after a prolonged period during which Saudi Arabia distanced itself from Lebanese matters, particularly due to the influence of the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
In April 2021, Saudi Arabia halted imports of Lebanese fruits and vegetables, citing concerns regarding drug smuggling. The nation was Lebanon’s primary agricultural export destination in 2019, receiving over 22% of these exports. Since 2021, restrictions have been placed on Saudi nationals wishing to travel to Lebanon, reflective of deteriorated relations between the two countries.
The discussions also covered the importance of the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory as stipulated in a ceasefire agreement. This follows comments from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, who stated that troops would remain indefinitely in a designated buffer zone in Lebanon.
President Aoun’s visit is notable, as it is the first by a Lebanese head of state to Riyadh in eight years. During his visit, he expressed hopes to revive military support from Saudi Arabia, which had previously suspended $3 billion worth of military assistance to Lebanon in 2016 due to concerns about Hezbollah’s influence.
In conclusion, the renewed dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon indicates a positive shift in relations, focusing on the resumption of trade and travel. The discussions encompass crucial issues, including the influence of Hezbollah and the Israeli military presence in Lebanon, which underscores the complexities of regional politics. President Aoun’s visit may pave the way for a more cooperative future between the two nations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
