Saudi Arabia Considers Resuming Trade with Lebanon and Lifting Travel Restrictions

Saudi Arabia is reviewing the possibility of resuming imports from Lebanon and lifting a travel ban on its citizens. This follows a recent meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The discussions aim to address trade challenges and reaffirm commitments to resolving regional territorial issues related to Israel.

Saudi Arabia is considering resuming importation of goods from Lebanon and lifting a travel ban on its citizens visiting the country. This development follows a meeting between Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in Riyadh, marking President Aoun’s first international trip since assuming office earlier this year. A joint statement highlighted the two governments’ commitment to addressing the “obstacles” related to these issues.

The renewed interest from Saudi Arabia in Lebanese affairs comes after years of distancing due to the influence of Iran-backed Hezbollah, which has recently been weakened following the conflict with Israel. The official Saudi Press Agency reported the agreement to begin a review of challenges in resuming trade and travel between the two nations.

In April 2021, Saudi Arabia suspended fruit and vegetable imports from Lebanon, citing drug smuggling concerns associated with Lebanese shipments. The kingdom was Lebanon’s largest agricultural market in 2019, purchasing over 22 percent of its exports. Additionally, since the diplomatic rift, Saudi nationals have been required to obtain government permission before traveling to Lebanon.

Both governments have stressed the importance of addressing the issue of Israeli occupation of Lebanese territories, reaffirming resolutions from a previous ceasefire agreement. Recent statements from Israeli officials indicate that troops may remain in Lebanon indefinitely.

President Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia is significant, being the first from a Lebanese leader in eight years. During the trip, he expressed hope to revitalize military assistance from Saudi Arabia after a cessation of a $3 billion package in 2016 amid concerns over Hezbollah’s role.

In summary, Saudi Arabia is moving towards re-establishing trade with Lebanon and potentially allowing its citizens to visit. This follows a significant meeting between Lebanese President Aoun and Saudi leadership, emphasizing cooperation despite past tensions. The countries aim to address critical issues, including trade obstacles and the Israeli occupation of Lebanese territory, with hopes to restore military support in the future.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com