Lebanon’s President Aoun to Seek Resumption of $3 Billion Aid From Saudi Arabia

President Joseph Aoun of Lebanon plans to seek the resumption of a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese army during his visit to Saudi Arabia next week. The aid was halted in 2016 due to Lebanon’s stance on Iranian attacks. Aoun emphasizes the need for improved relations and economic ties with Saudi Arabia, which are contingent on Lebanon’s commitment to financial reforms.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has announced plans to request the reactivation of a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese army during his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia next week. This will mark Aoun’s first trip abroad since his election as president on January 9, and he is scheduled to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday. Aoun stated his intention to inquire if Riyadh would consider reviving the grant, which was suspended in 2016 following Lebanon’s failure to condemn Iranian attacks on Saudi diplomatic facilities.

Historically, Saudi Arabia has invested substantial resources in Lebanon, aiding the national military and facilitating reconstruction efforts in the south after the 2006 conflict with Hezbollah. However, as Hezbollah’s influence has strengthened with support from Iran, Saudi initiatives have waned. Recent events have shifted the regional political landscape, particularly following intensive Israeli offensives against Hezbollah and the toppling of Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

In his interview, Aoun expressed optimism regarding the potential for a renewed partnership with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the desire to enhance economic and political relations. He stated, “I hope and I await from Saudi Arabia – and especially the Crown Prince – to correct the relationship in the interests of both countries.” Aoun anticipates that foreign support, particularly from Gulf states, will be increasingly contingent on Lebanon’s commitment to implementing essential financial reforms.

Lebanon is currently grappling with significant reconstruction costs attributed to the extensive damage inflicted by Israeli strikes. While President Aoun reiterated Lebanon’s dedication to carrying out necessary reforms, he urged that the flow of reconstruction aid should be gradual. This aid would facilitate the return of Lebanese individuals displaced from areas affected by conflict, particularly in the southern regions of the country.

In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s diplomatic endeavor to revive a crucial $3 billion military aid package from Saudi Arabia highlights the significance of healing ties between Lebanon and the kingdom. With foreign support increasingly tied to Lebanon’s financial reforms, collaboration stands as a critical pathway for both nations’ political and economic interests. The anticipated discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman could shape the future dynamics of Lebanese reconstruction and political stability.

Original Source: www.jpost.com