Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia to restore ties, meeting Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. Aoun highlighted the importance of military aid and economic cooperation, aligning Lebanon with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. His presidency aims for a strong Lebanese state with a monopoly on weapons, targeting Hezbollah’s influence and pursuing improved relations with Arab nations.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun made his first official trip to Saudi Arabia on Monday after taking office, aiming to restore relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Aoun, previously the army chief and seen as favorable to Riyadh and Washington, was elected on January 9 following a prolonged power void and amid a severe political and economic crisis in Lebanon.
During his visit, Aoun expressed optimism about his upcoming discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, which he hopes will facilitate future agreements enhancing cooperation between the two nations. His presidency’s statement highlighted his aspirations for a productive dialogue that could lead to significant bilateral accords.
Historically, the relationship between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia has been rocky, particularly since Riyadh suspended $3 billion in military aid to Lebanon’s army in 2016 due to Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanese governance. Aoun expressed intentions to revitalize military assistance during his discussions with Saudi counterparts.
Aoun prioritized Saudi Arabia for his first foreign visit due to its longstanding connection with Lebanon and its influential role in regional affairs. He seeks to rebuild these ties to mutual advantage, aiming for economic cooperation that aligns Lebanon with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy beyond oil.
Upon taking office, Aoun committed to establishing a Lebanese state with a monopoly on weapons, addressing the enduring influence of Hezbollah, which remains armed following the country’s civil war. He also aims to pursue a policy of positive neutrality while building robust relations with other Arab nations.
President Joseph Aoun’s first diplomatic venture to Saudi Arabia signifies hopes for improved relations following years of strain. Through talks with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, Aoun aims to foster military cooperation and economic ties aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, ultimately seeking to stabilize Lebanon amid its ongoing crises. His commitment to reinforce Lebanon’s state authority over weapons and pursue positive regional diplomacy underscores significant policy directions during his presidency.
Original Source: www.gulftoday.ae
