Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced Saudi Arabia as his first destination for foreign visits, following a congratulatory call from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Aoun emphasized the historical support from Saudi Arabia and the importance of Lebanon’s Arab identity. He also expressed his intention to form a new government promptly to foster trust with the international community.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declared that his inaugural foreign visit as president will be to Saudi Arabia. This announcement follows a phone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who extended congratulations from King Salman bin Abdulaziz on Aoun’s recent election to the presidency. Aoun acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s significant historical role in supporting Lebanon and reiterated the importance of Lebanon’s Arab identity for its regional relations. During the discussion, both leaders addressed current developments and affirmed the need to fortify the longstanding ties between their nations.
In a proactive approach to governance, President Aoun underscored his intention to establish a Lebanese government promptly to reinforce trust with the international community. Following his election, Aoun met with the Grand Mufti of Lebanon, Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian, where he reaffirmed his commitment to fostering a state founded on principles of justice and equality for all Lebanese citizens. To further this agenda, he announced that parliamentary consultations for appointing the new prime minister would commence soon, aiming to address the political void created after former President Michel Aoun left office in October 2022.
The announcement by President Joseph Aoun marks a significant diplomatic gesture as he seeks to re-establish Lebanon’s connection within the Arab world, particularly with Saudi Arabia—an important ally and supporter of Lebanon. The Lebanese presidency has been marked by a two-year political vacuum, and the new president’s commitment to interact with regional partners signals an intention to revitalize Lebanon’s standing and tackle pressing domestic issues. Furthermore, the historical ties between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia underscore the latter’s role in Lebanon’s political landscape and economic development.
In conclusion, President Joseph Aoun’s decision to prioritize Saudi Arabia as his first foreign visit represents an attempt to strengthen Lebanon’s ties within the Arab world and reaffirm its regional identity. His focus on forming a new government and maintaining relations with international leaders underscores a commitment to restoring stability and rebuilding trust in Lebanon’s governance framework.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
