Lebanon’s president Joseph Aoun aims to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia during his first visit in six years, hoping to lift travel bans and restore trade. The trip follows contentious relations impacted by Hezbollah’s presence and past diplomatic crises. Aoun’s presidency and the appointment of a new prime minister are important for Lebanon’s political landscape. Further, Saudi Arabia may reactivate military aid to Lebanon.
Lebanon’s president expressed intentions to enhance relations with Saudi Arabia during a recent visit, marking his first since assuming office. This visit is significant as it follows years of strained ties, primarily influenced by concerns regarding the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Joseph Aoun’s trip is notable as he is the first Lebanese head of state to visit Riyadh in six years.
The deterioration in relations has led Saudi Arabia to impose a travel and import ban on Lebanon. Both Aoun’s recent presidency and Nawaf Salam’s appointment as prime minister are viewed as setbacks for Hezbollah. Renewed diplomatic efforts may be in play as Lebanon seeks the lifting of the travel ban, trade restoration, and support for rebuilding efforts in war-impacted regions.
President Aoun remarked that his visit serves to emphasize the longstanding relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia and to acknowledge the kingdom’s role in supporting Lebanon’s stability and governance. Relations were further strained in 2021 when Saudi Arabia criticized Lebanese officials for inaction against drug trafficking and issued sanctions after remarks by a Lebanese minister.
Additionally, Aoun announced that Saudi Arabia might reactivate a $3 billion aid package aimed at strengthening the Lebanese military in light of ongoing security challenges. This one-day trip is particularly noteworthy as it marks Aoun’s first international excursion since his election and follows a visit by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Beirut.
President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia symbolizes a potential thaw in diplomatic relations following years of tension. The trip not only aims to mend ties and emphasize the importance of Lebanese-Saudi relations but also seeks to address critical issues such as military support and economic aid. Aoun’s government is poised to navigate complex regional dynamics, especially concerning Hezbollah’s influence and ongoing reconstruction efforts.
Original Source: www.wral.com
