Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday for his first official foreign visit since his election in January.
Joseph Aoun upon his arrival in Saudi Arabia © X
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday for his first official foreign visit since his election in January.
His trip to Riyadh marks a significant step in Lebanon’s efforts to strengthen ties with the Gulf states following years of diplomatic and economic tensions.
Aoun’s election on January 9 came at a time when Lebanon has been striving to re-establish its regional alliances. In late January, he pledged to reinforce Lebanon’s relationships with the Gulf nations, aiming to set "new foundations for cooperation."
The Lebanese-Gulf ties have been strained in recent years due to Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon’s political and military affairs.
However, following Hezbollah’s recent military setbacks, including the death of its leader Hassan Nasrallah in September 2024, Gulf nations have shown a renewed willingness to engage with Lebanon.
The visit to Saudi Arabia highlights Aoun’s commitment to diplomatic reconciliation and economic cooperation. Riyadh has historically played a crucial role in Lebanon’s stability, and improved ties could pave the way for financial and developmental support to help Lebanon recover from its prolonged economic crisis.
Following his visit to Riyadh, Aoun is scheduled to travel to Cairo on Tuesday morning to attend an Arab summit on the situation in Gaza.
The summit aims to address the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in the region, bringing together key Arab leaders to discuss possible solutions and coordinated efforts for regional stability.
Joseph Aoun’s diplomatic engagements in Saudi Arabia and Egypt signal Lebanon’s intention to regain its standing in the Arab world, fostering stronger alliances and cooperation amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
By Antoine Khoury
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