Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on his first foreign trip, aiming to strengthen ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. The visit comes after Aoun’s election ended a power vacuum, with hopes of reactivating military aid and fostering economic cooperation under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative. He emphasized the necessity for Lebanon to build normal relations with traditional Arab allies.
On his first official overseas visit since assuming office, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. The meeting marks a significant diplomatic endeavor following Aoun’s election on January 9, which concluded over two years of political instability amid a severe economic crisis in Lebanon. Aoun’s ascent to the presidency is attributed to the weakening influence of Hezbollah as a result of the recent conflict with Israel.
President Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies an effort to mend ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, historically strained due to Hezbollah’s influence. His commitment to fostering military cooperation and economic ties reflects a strategic move to stabilize Lebanon’s relationship with its Arab neighbors. The president’s approach underscores the importance of solidarity among Arab nations amidst ongoing regional challenges.
Original Source: www.arnnewscentre.ae