Aoun, MBS explore bilateral ties in high-level Lebanon-KSA meeting

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen English
4 Mar 2025 15:21

For his first diplomatic visit abroad, President Joseph Aoun has met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss Lebanese-Saudi ties.

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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, left, walks by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in Saudi Arabia, March 3, 2025. (Social Media)

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman agreed to begin examining the obstacles hindering the resumption of exports from Beirut to Riyadh and the necessary measures to allow Saudi citizens to travel to Lebanon.

In a joint statement, Lebanon and KSA emphasized the importance of implementing the commitments outlined in the swearing-in speech delivered by President Aoun after his election, in which he presented his vision for Lebanon’s stability, as well as the provisions of the ministerial statement.

They also reaffirmed "the full implementation of the Taif Agreement, the enforcement of relevant international resolutions, the extension of state sovereignty over all Lebanese territory, the restriction of arms possession to the Lebanese state, and the national role of the Lebanese army and the importance of supporting it, in addition to the necessity of the Israeli occupation army’s withdrawal from all Lebanese territories."

The two leaders agreed on the need for Lebanon’s economic recovery and overcoming its current crisis by initiating internationally required reforms based on principles of transparency and the enforcement of binding laws.

President Aoun also extended an invitation to his Saudi counterpart to visit Lebanon.

The discussions took place during an official meeting where both sides reviewed bilateral relations and ways to enhance cooperation in all fields. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments, stressing the importance of strengthening Arab cooperation and coordinating positions on key issues at both the regional and global levels.

Ahead of his visit, the president stated that he selected Saudi Arabia as his first destination due to its "historic ties" with Lebanon and its influence as both a regional and global power. He said: "I hope and expect that Saudi Arabia will help us reset relations in the interest of both countries and overcome recent obstacles."

Aoun voiced hopes of "building normal economic ties", saying Lebanon could align with "Vision 2030" -- Riyadh's initiative to diversify its economy beyond oil. "This would allow the Saudis to return to their second home, Lebanon, while the Lebanese look forward to reconnecting with Saudi Arabia," he said.

Following his visit to Saudi Arabia, Aoun traveled to Cairo, accompanied by Foreign Minister Youssef Raji, to participate in the emergency Arab summit being held today to discuss the Palestinian cause.