Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed the longstanding and historic ties between Lebanon and Kuwait, expressing hope for the return of Kuwaiti nationals and other Gulf citizens to Lebanon.

"Arab unity is the cornerstone for addressing current challenges," Aoun stated.

During a meeting at Baabda Palace with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali al-Yahya, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jassem al-Budaiwi, and their delegation, President Aoun emphasized his commitment to strengthening Lebanon’s relations with the Gulf countries.

"Following the formation of the government, Lebanon will engage with Gulf countries to establish new frameworks for cooperation based on principles outlined in the inaugural address," Aoun said.

Minister al-Yahya extended Kuwait’s congratulations on Aoun’s election, reaffirming Kuwait's solidarity with Lebanon and offering comprehensive support.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with Lebanese President #JosephAoun at the Presidential Palace on Thursday, marking his first visit to Lebanon in 15 years and signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening Saudi-Lebanese ties.

President Aoun hailed the visit… pic.twitter.com/K7oBrgd36c

— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) January 24, 2025

The Kuwaiti foreign minister further emphasized that the Gulf Cooperation Council stresses the importance of Lebanon undertaking essential reforms and fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 while underscoring the urgent need for Israeli forces to withdraw from Lebanese territory.

On his part, al-Budaiwi reiterated the GCC's commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty and announced plans to develop a Gulf economic program in collaboration with Lebanon’s new government, contingent on reforms.

President Aoun expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted Lebanon's commitment to progress under a renewed Arab partnership. The meeting was attended by senior officials, with al-Yahya leaving a note wishing Lebanon "continued progress and prosperity."

Lebanon's Aoun meets Saudi foreign minister, talk about bilateral ties

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the Baabda Palace on Thursday, marking the minister's first visit to Lebanon in 15 years. The meeting underscored the strengthening ties between the two nations and Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in supporting Lebanon during a critical period.

During the meeting, President Aoun expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia's efforts in assisting Lebanon, particularly in ending the presidential vacancy. He described the visit as a "message of hope" and emphasized the importance of implementing his inaugural address, which he said reflects the aspirations of the Lebanese people.

Aoun outlined the priorities for the coming phase, which include reconstruction, addressing the economic crisis, and bolstering the military and security institutions. He also called for renewed Saudi engagement in Lebanon, recalling the historical bonds between the two countries and hoping for stronger bilateral relations across all fields.

Prince Faisal conveyed greetings from King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to President Aoun, congratulating him on his election. He affirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting Lebanon's path toward prosperity, highlighting the significance of President Aoun's inaugural speech as a guiding framework for reform. 

Aoun elected president

Lebanese legislators in early January voted for Aoun after they failed to secure the necessary two-thirds majority (86 votes) in the first round of voting earlier in the day, which is required for Aoun, as the army chief, to win.

After 71 deputies voted for the army commander in the first round, he won in the second round, with 99 recorded votes.

It is worth noting that all 128 Lebanese representatives participated in the presidential election, with ambassadors from several countries in attendance, including those of the United States, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Qatar, Egypt, and China.

Joseph Aoun has served as the Commander of the Lebanese Army since March 8, 2017, succeeding General Jean Kahwaji. His military career began in 1983, marking the start of his long service in the army.

He was promoted to brigadier general in 2013 and continued to rise through the ranks, achieving the rank of General in 2017. That same year, he was appointed Commander of the Army, leading during one of the most sensitive periods in Lebanon's history.