Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati have pledged to strengthen relations during Mikati’s first visit to Damascus since 2011. Their discussions centered on fostering strategic ties, addressing the issue of Syrian refugees, and establishing clearer borders to combat smuggling. The meeting reflects a shift following significant political changes in both countries.
On Saturday, Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati affirmed their commitment to developing robust bilateral ties during Mikati’s inaugural visit to Damascus since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011. The visit follows the recent changes in the Syrian political landscape, including the recent fall of President Bashar al-Assad. This development signifies a potential thaw in relations, as past Lebanese administrations had refrained from such engagements amid domestic opposition to Hezbollah’s backing of Assad’s regime.
Prime Minister Mikati emphasized the necessity for ties grounded in mutual respect, equality, and national sovereignty, while Sharaa expressed hopes for a reestablished friendship, highlighting shared interests and the desire for stability in Lebanon following the election of President Joseph Aoun. Both leaders also acknowledged pressing issues, including the plight of approximately two million Syrian refugees residing in Lebanon since the civil war began. Mikati underscored the need for their return to Syria as an urgent priority for both nations.
In addition to humanitarian concerns, Mikati highlighted the importance of delineating the land and maritime borders between the two countries, as this could facilitate offshore gas extraction endeavors for Lebanon. Herein lies a historical contention, as Syria previously resisted border demarcation efforts. Mikati further recognized the necessity for stringent border controls to combat smuggling, a longstanding issue due to the lack of official border delineations.
The evolving dynamics present opportunities for both countries to address these persistent challenges, particularly as Lebanon grapples with its economic crisis exacerbated by the large number of Syrian refugees. The international community’s attention has refocused on Syria, with several foreign officials visiting to meet the new leadership, indicating a shift in regional diplomatic relations.
Syria and Lebanon have a complex historical relationship, characterized by Syria’s dominant influence over Lebanon, particularly during the civil war years from 1975 to 1990. Under the Assad family, Syria maintained military and political control, which continued until the withdrawal of Syrian troops in 2005. The political landscape has since shifted dramatically due to the Syrian civil war initiated in 2011, which saw Lebanon divided in its support for Syrian leadership, primarily due to Hezbollah’s backing of Assad. Recent developments, particularly the election of new leadership in Lebanon following a prolonged political deadlock, have heralded a possible rapprochement between the two nations.
The meeting between Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa marks a potentially pivotal moment in Syria-Lebanon relations. Both leaders expressed a desire to overcome previous tensions, foster strategic partnerships, and address critical humanitarian and security issues, particularly concerning Syrian refugees and border control. This renewed dialogue may pave the way for cooperation in navigating the complex geopolitical dynamics affecting both countries.
Original Source: www.northwestsignal.net
