Lebanese President Aoun’s Historic Visit to Saudi Arabia: A Step Towards Reviving Relations

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has visited Saudi Arabia for his first official trip since taking office, emphasizing the importance of restoring ties between the two nations. His planned meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focuses on military aid and economic cooperation, as well as overcoming previous diplomatic hurdles. Aoun aims to position Lebanon within the framework of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, aspiring for a revitalization of bilateral relations.

On Monday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun embarked on his inaugural overseas trip since assuming office, arriving in Saudi Arabia. His election in January marked the conclusion of a significant power vacuum amidst severe political and economic turmoil in Lebanon. Aoun, a former army chief with expectations of support from Riyadh and Washington, is expected to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later today.

In advance of their meeting, Aoun expressed optimism regarding their discussions, as indicated in a post from the Lebanese presidency on X. He aspires that their talks will facilitate a future visit, leading to agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Aoun remarked on the historical ties between the two nations and emphasized Saudi Arabia’s prominent role in the region.

The relationship between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia has been fraught for several years, particularly after Riyadh suspended $3 billion in military assistance to Lebanon’s army in 2016 due to Hezbollah’s influence. Aoun indicated his intent to rekindle military aid during an interview with Saudi publication Asharq Al Awsat, underscoring his choice of Saudi Arabia as his first destination due to its important connections with Lebanon.

The new president envisions fostering normal economic relationships, aligning Lebanon with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to move beyond oil dependency. He articulated a desire for Lebanese nationals to renew ties with Saudis on familiar ground, as Saudi citizens were once accustomed to Lebanon being their second home. Aoun reiterated his commitment to establish a monopoly on weapons within the Lebanese state and advocated for a stance of positive neutrality.

In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s visit to Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment in Lebanon’s foreign relations, particularly in aiming to restore ties strained by geopolitical conflicts. His discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are aimed at promoting mutual cooperation and addressing military assistance, reflecting Lebanon’s aspirations for economic collaboration and stabilization in the region. Aoun’s commitment to building a reconciliatory framework between Lebanon and its Arab neighbors signifies a potential shift towards improved diplomatic engagement.

Original Source: gulfnews.com