Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Seeks to Strengthen Ties with Saudi Arabia

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia to strengthen ties after a prolonged political crisis. He is set to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and expressed hopes for enhanced cooperation and potential military aid reactivation. Aoun aims to build normal economic relations aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, while addressing Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun embarked on his inaugural foreign trip to Saudi Arabia on Monday, following his election amidst a prolonged political impasse and economic turmoil in Lebanon. Aoun, a former army chief who is perceived to receive support from both Riyadh and Washington, aims to heal the historically strained relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.

The president is scheduled to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, the effective leader of Saudi Arabia. Aoun expressed optimism about the discussions, stating through the Lebanese presidency’s social media that he anticipates constructive conversations aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, with the potential for agreements to be signed in the future.

Relations between the two nations have been tense for several years, particularly after Saudi Arabia suspended $3 billion in military assistance to Lebanon in 2016 due to Hezbollah’s considerable influence. Aoun conveyed his intention to explore the possibility of reactivating this military aid in discussions with Saudi officials.

He highlighted his choice of Saudi Arabia as his first international destination due to the longstanding historical ties between the two countries and Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in the region. The president expressed a desire for a mutual reset of relations that would benefit both nations.

Moreover, Aoun voiced aspirations for normalizing economic ties, promoting alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims at economic diversification beyond oil. He remarked that this would facilitate mutual travel and collaboration between Lebanese and Saudis.

Upon assuming the presidency, Aoun committed to establishing a Lebanese state with sole authority over weaponry. However, he faces the challenge presented by Hezbollah, the only faction maintaining arms after the civil war. Aoun also pledged to maintain a policy of positive neutrality and foster amicable relations with Arab states.

In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a significant step towards reinvigorating Lebanon-Saudi relations. His commitment to enhancing military and economic cooperation, alongside his efforts to realign Lebanon’s foreign policy, signifies a hopeful trajectory for both countries amidst previous conflicts. Aoun’s initiative underscores the importance of regional partnerships for Lebanon’s recovery and development.

Original Source: www.gulftoday.ae