In an inaugural visit since the Syrian civil war, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati met with Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to forge stronger ties. Both leaders highlighted the importance of mutual respect and cooperation in addressing issues such as the return of refugees and border delineation. This meeting reflects a shifting political landscape following the fall of Assad, marking a potential turning point in Lebanese-Syrian relations.
On Saturday, Syria’s new leadership and Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening their nations’ ties. This meeting marked the first visit of a Lebanese Prime Minister to Damascus since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. Mikati’s visit follows significant shifts in Syria’s power dynamics, notably the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime late last month to Islamist-led rebels. Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s newly appointed leader, expressed optimism about fostering long-term strategic relations between Syria and Lebanon, emphasizing their shared interests.
Mikati reiterated that relationships between the two states would be grounded in principles of mutual respect and sovereignty. He highlighted the pressing issue of the estimated two million Syrian refugees in Lebanon, stressing that their return must be prioritized. The Lebanese authorities have conveyed that the ongoing hosting of such a significant number of refugees poses an economic strain on Lebanon.
Additionally, the Prime Minister called for the establishment of a joint committee to delineate the land and maritime borders between the two nations, a significant step given that Syria had previously resisted any border demarcation efforts. Both leaders agreed on the necessity of comprehensive control over their shared borders to mitigate smuggling and enhance security. Recent diplomatic engagements with foreign dignitaries have further underscored Syria’s renewed positioning in international relations, signaling a potential shift in regional alliances and cooperation.
The broader geopolitical landscape has seen Syria being historically influential in Lebanon, especially under the Assad family’s rule. For thirty years, Syria maintained considerable sway over Lebanese affairs, intervening directly during Lebanon’s civil war from 1975 to 1990. However, following mass protests in Lebanon and the assassination of Prime Minister Rafic Hariri in 2005, Syrian troops withdrew. The aftermath of this withdrawal coupled with the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011, has strained relationships between the two countries, particularly due to Hezbollah, a Lebanese political party and militant group, supporting the Assad regime. The recent shift in power dynamics with the fall of Assad opens an avenue for renewed dialogue and cooperation as Lebanon seeks to stabilize its government following a prolonged political impasse.
The recent dialogue between Syrian and Lebanese leaders signifies a pivotal moment in their bilateral relations, with the stated aim of establishing a collaborative framework based on mutual respect and shared interests. The pressing issues, such as the return of Syrian refugees and border demarcation, highlight the urgency for cooperation. With political changes in both nations, this rapprochement could lead to a new era of stability, addressing long-standing issues stemming from years of conflict and division.
Original Source: www.wnbjtv.com
