ALBAWABA- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday for his first overseas visit since taking office in January, marking a significant step in mending strained relations between Beirut and Riyadh.
Calling the visit “an opportunity to reaffirm the strong Lebanese-Saudi relations,” Aoun expressed optimism about his scheduled meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later in the evening.
The Lebanese presidency stated that discussions would focus on strengthening bilateral ties and paving the way for future agreements.
Aoun also took the opportunity to acknowledge Saudi Arabia’s long-standing support for Lebanon’s stability and economic development, as well as its role in welcoming Lebanese expatriates over the years.
This trip marks the first visit by a Lebanese leader to the kingdom in eight years, following tensions linked to Hezbollah’s dominance in Lebanese politics.
Aoun’s visit is seen as part of a broader effort by Lebanese authorities to restore relations with Arab countries and secure much-needed economic and political support.
Following his visit to Riyadh, Aoun will travel to Egypt to attend an emergency Arab summit focused on developments in Palestine.
Aoun, a former army chief, was elected president on January 9, ending a two-year presidential vacuum in Lebanon. His government, led by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, was formed last month after securing parliamentary approval.
Aoun underscored the deep historical ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia, as relations between the two countries have suffered due to Hezbollah’s involvement in supporting Yemen’s Houthis.
Aoun expressed hope that his visit would mark a turning point in rebuilding trust and cooperation.
