Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with Saudi Crown Prince MbS on March 4 to discuss Lebanon’s economic recovery, territorial sovereignty, and the Israeli military’s continued presence. They highlighted reforms needed to revitalize the Lebanese economy and restore trade relations. The talks also addressed Saudi Arabia’s potential financial aid for reconstruction in Lebanon after recent conflicts.
On March 4, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MbS) held discussions in Riyadh focused on Lebanon’s economic recovery and the Israeli military presence in Lebanon. They highlighted the need for Lebanon to assert sovereignty over all its territories and implement relevant international resolutions, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA).
The leaders emphasized restricting arms to the Lebanese state, supporting the Lebanese army, and insisting on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory. They acknowledged the pressing need for Lebanon to recover from its economic crisis since the 2019 financial collapse and agreed on starting necessary reforms based on transparency and legal obligations.
Aoun and MbS also addressed the diplomatic issues affecting trade, agreeing to study the barriers to resuming Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and the procedures for Saudi citizens to visit Lebanon. This discussion followed a diplomatic rift that began in 2021, halting economic cooperation due to controversial comments from Lebanese officials regarding the Saudi-led military intervention in Yemen.
Lebanon’s reconstruction has become critical following the extensive damage inflicted during the recent Israeli conflict, which escalated into a full-scale war beginning in October 2023. Reports indicate Saudi Arabia may provide financial support for rebuilding efforts, although this would come with strict oversight conditions. Additionally, Hezbollah is actively involved in local reconstruction initiatives.
Despite a ceasefire and an agreement meant to facilitate the Israeli military’s withdrawal, Israeli forces continue to occupy parts of southern Lebanon, contravening United Nations Resolution 1701. Aoun maintains a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia, building on his prior leadership of Lebanon’s Armed Forces and ongoing ties with the new Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
The discussions between Lebanese President Aoun and Crown Prince MbS underline a shared commitment to Lebanon’s economic recovery and territorial sovereignty amidst ongoing regional tensions. The dialogues aim to restore relations affected by past conflicts and support reconstruction efforts in Lebanon while addressing security concerns linked to Israeli occupation. This could signify a pivotal moment in Lebanese-Saudi relations, essential for overcoming Lebanon’s deep economic challenges.
Original Source: thecradle.co
