In a significant step toward strengthening ties, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun held official talks in Riyadh on Monday, Arab media reported.
The meeting, which marked President Aoun’s first official visit abroad since his election in January, signaled a renewed commitment to enhancing co-operation between the two nations across political, economic, and social spheres.
New era of co-operation
President Aoun expressed his appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s longstanding support for Lebanon’s stability and constitutional institutions, stating that the visit was an opportunity to thank the Kingdom for its role in hosting and integrating Lebanese expatriates who have contributed to Saudi Arabia’s development.
[The visit] underscores the depth of Lebanese-Saudi relations and is an occasion to express Lebanon’s appreciation to the role the Kingdom plays in supporting its stability and constitutional institutions.
Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in Lebanon’s modern history, including its efforts to end the country’s 1975-1990 civil war. The Kingdom has consistently supported Lebanon’s security and stability, providing humanitarian aid and standing in solidarity with the Lebanese people in times of crisis.
Shared goals for regional stability
Aoun highlighted the contributions of Lebanese expatriates in Saudi Arabia to the Kingdom’s economic growth and development. He also emphasised the need for continued coordination between Beirut and Riyadh to address regional challenges and achieve the aspirations of the Lebanese people.
The talks between Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focused on empowering the Lebanese state, ensuring its sovereignty, and enabling it to impose authority across its territories.
Both leaders agreed on the importance of implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for a ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory.
Saudi Arabia has reiterated its commitment to supporting Lebanon’s stability and unity, expressing confidence in Aoun’s ability to implement necessary reforms.
