Source: Kataeb.org
Tuesday 4 March 2025 11:02:20
Saudi Arabia and Lebanon have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Arab cooperation and aligning their positions on key regional and international issues. This pledge was made during the official visit of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the Kingdom on Monday, marking a significant step in further deepening the longstanding ties between the two nations.
The visit, which was held at the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, focused on key political, security, and economic matters. Both sides stressed the importance of enhancing collaboration within the Arab world to address the ongoing challenges in the region.
In a joint communiqué issued at the end of the visit, both countries emphasized the necessity of fully implementing the Taif Agreement, which serves as a cornerstone of Lebanon’s post-civil war peace process. They also highlighted the need to adhere to international resolutions that support Lebanon's sovereignty, stressing the importance of keeping all weapons under the control of the Lebanese state. The statement reiterated the need to support the Lebanese Army’s national role and called for Israel’s withdrawal from all Lebanese territories.
The talks between the two leaders focused on Lebanon’s pivotal role within the Arab world, with both sides recognizing Lebanon as an integral member of the Arab system. President Aoun reiterated that Lebanon’s relationships with Arab countries remain vital for ensuring its security and stability. The leaders also exchanged views on current regional and international developments, reaffirming their shared interest in strengthening Arab cooperation and aligning their positions on key global issues.
A significant point of discussion was the resumption of exports from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia, with both sides agreeing to begin studying the obstacles hindering this process. They also reviewed measures to facilitate travel for Saudi citizens to Lebanon, with the aim of further enhancing bilateral relations.
Both countries also stressed the importance of President Aoun’s vision for Lebanon’s future, particularly regarding the ongoing reforms needed to stabilize the country’s economy and address its ongoing crisis. They agreed on the importance of implementing reforms in line with international expectations, focusing on transparency and the enforcement of binding legal frameworks.
At the conclusion of the visit, President Aoun expressed his deep appreciation to Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. In a gesture of friendship, President Aoun extended an invitation for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Lebanon, a move that was welcomed by the Saudi leader.