The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced on Saturday its plans to reopen its embassy in Lebanon, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations. The decision followed a phone call between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Lebanon’s newly elected President, Joseph Aoun.

During the call, Sheikh Mohamed extended his congratulations to Aoun on his election as president, expressing optimism for Lebanon’s future. He conveyed hopes for Aoun’s success in steering the country toward development and stability.

Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the UAE’s unwavering commitment to supporting Lebanon. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure the country’s security and stability while addressing the aspirations of its people.

“We look forward to working together for the mutual benefit and prosperity of both nations and their peoples,” he said.

For his part, President Aoun expressed gratitude to Sheikh Mohamed for his support, acknowledging the UAE’s pivotal role in assisting Lebanon across various sectors. He pledged to strengthen the bilateral relationship and enhance cooperation in areas of shared interest.

The UAE, along with several other Gulf states, had closed its embassy in Beirut in October 2021 in "solidarity" with Saudi Arabia over a Lebanese minister's criticism of the kingdom's military intervention in Yemen.