Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is traveling to Saudi Arabia to seek assistance for Lebanon’s economic crisis and improve bilateral relations. The visit, his first since taking office, aims to address economic recovery and regional security issues, especially related to Israel. A series of agreements are in progress to enhance trade and cooperation between the nations, following previous diplomatic tensions and trade restrictions.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is set to embark on a significant visit to Saudi Arabia to seek assistance for Lebanon, which is grappling with a severe financial crisis compounded by the previous year’s conflict with Israel. This marks Aoun’s first foreign journey since being elected on January 9. The main agenda includes enhancing bilateral relations, addressing Lebanon’s economic challenges, and discussing regional security matters, particularly concerning Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanese territories.
Aoun’s trip, which responds to an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscores Saudi Arabia’s historical backing of Lebanon and Aoun’s commitment to Arab unity. Following this visit, Aoun will head to Egypt to participate in an Arab Summit, further emphasizing Lebanon’s regional engagements.
The backdrop of Saudi-Lebanese relations is complex, particularly due to the political dynamics involving Hezbollah. Saudi Arabia has historically mediated Lebanon’s political crises, notably through the Taif Agreement, yet relations have soured considerably in recent years, mostly due to Hezbollah’s growing power and its tensions with Riyadh.
The diplomatic rift intensified in 2021 after controversial statements made by then-Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi about Saudi actions in Yemen, leading to a freeze in economic and diplomatic ties. Subsequently, Saudi Arabia imposed a ban on Lebanese food imports and issued travel advisories against Lebanon, significantly impacting Lebanon’s economy.
In recent months, Saudi Arabia has shown signs of renewed engagement in Lebanese matters, participating in the Quintet Committee with Qatar, the U.S., France, and Egypt. This newfound involvement aims to stabilize Lebanon politically and economically, especially with Aoun’s presidency bringing a potential for reform amidst declining Hezbollah influence.
Meetings between Aoun and Crown Prince Salman are expected to focus on preventing Lebanon from becoming a battleground for regional disputes and discussing economic recovery needs following the establishment of a new government. Lebanon anticipates securing Saudi investments, reconstruction assistance, and the lifting of the travel ban to trigger economic revitalization.
Efforts are underway to finalize a series of economic agreements between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, covering various sectors such as trade and agriculture. These agreements, currently being completed, aim to bolster the bilateral economic relationship, with Lebanon’s exports to Saudi Arabia previously amounting to nearly $800 million annually.
The suspension of trade and economic ties has contributed to Lebanon’s financial difficulties stemming from a devastating economic collapse in 2019. The restoration of trade with Saudi Arabia is considered vital for economic recovery, providing essential foreign currency and bolstering public and private sector confidence as Lebanon seeks to rebuild.
A notable sign of warming relations occurred when Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud visited Beirut, marking the highest-level Saudi diplomatic engagement in 15 years. This visit signifies a potential shift in diplomatic attitudes and indicates a willingness to rebuild cooperative ties.
President Aoun’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia is a critical step in addressing Lebanon’s financial crisis and revitalizing diplomatic relations after years of tension. By focusing on economic cooperation and regional security, both nations aim to embark on a new chapter of mutual support and collaboration. Measures such as the finalization of trade agreements and a renewed dialogue offer hope for Lebanon’s recovery and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
