Lebanon is experiencing heightened diplomatic activity with visits from Jordan’s Foreign Minister and upcoming engagements with the UN chief and French president. Support for newly elected President Joseph Aoun reflects international interest in the stability and reconstruction of Lebanon, emphasizing the need for adherence to ceasefire agreements and collaboration with neighboring countries.
Lebanon is set to experience significant diplomatic movements in the coming days, with Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi visiting Beirut and a scheduled visit from the UN chief and French president. Following the recent election of President Joseph Aoun, world leaders have expressed their support for Lebanon’s efforts to recover from a prolonged political stalemate and ongoing crises. Al-Safadi acknowledged the potential for Lebanon to reclaim its status as an economic and cultural center in the region during his discussions with Aoun and other Lebanese officials.
Al-Safadi highlighted Lebanon’s urgent need for reconstruction following the devastating Israeli-Hezbollah conflict from the previous year. He reiterated the importance of Israel adhering to the ceasefire established on November 27, which mandates its withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the repositioning of Hezbollah forces. Furthermore, the Lebanese military is expected to enforce these terms by dismantling non-state military installations and confiscating unauthorized arms.
Despite calls for compliance, the Israeli military has continued to breach the cease-fire terms through airstrikes and demolitions targeting Hezbollah assets. Al-Safadi emphasized Jordan’s ongoing support for the Lebanese army’s role in maintaining the ceasefire and underscored discussions about exporting electricity from Jordan to alleviate Lebanon’s persistent energy crisis, which have been impeded by U.S. sanctions on Syria.
During his visit, Al-Safadi also conferred with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and outgoing premier Najib Mikati. He noted that Lebanon is entering a new historical phase and expressed aspirations for enhanced relations between Lebanon and Jordan. Furthermore, Al-Safadi engaged with Lebanon’s incoming Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to discuss the formation of a new cabinet amid ongoing consultations.
In a related development, Qatar’s ambassador to Lebanon, Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, extended an invitation for President Aoun to visit Doha, underscoring Qatar’s commitment to supporting the Lebanese army and its historical role in Lebanese affairs. Aoun has also received invitations from Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Greece, with plans for a visit to Riyadh as his first international engagement.
French President Emmanuel Macron will be visiting Lebanon to congratulate President Aoun on his election. This visit marks Macron’s first trip to Lebanon since 2020 and follows the extensive efforts of France to assist Lebanon in overcoming political challenges. His visit aims to reaffirm France’s dedication to supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty and unity, as well as to congratulate Nawaf Salam on his appointment.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will arrive in Lebanon to oversee a crucial meeting regarding the ongoing Israel-Lebanon ceasefire agreement. This meeting is to take place at the UN peacekeeping forces base in Naqoura, including representatives from the US, France, Israel, and Lebanon to discuss the execution of troop withdrawals in southern Lebanon and the Lebanese army’s preparedness to assume its role along the border.
The diplomatic landscape in Lebanon has shifted markedly following the election of President Joseph Aoun and the appointment of a new prime minister tasked with forming a government. The country is at a crossroads, facing significant challenges, including rebuilding following the conflicts of the past and addressing internal political divisions. Regional and international support plays a crucial role in Lebanon’s navigational opportunities for recovery and stability, as evidenced by the activity from Jordan, Qatar, France, and the United Nations. The need for compliance with ceasefire agreements and plans for infrastructural support, such as electricity exportation from Jordan, is integral to Lebanon’s future.
In summary, Lebanon is currently engaging in substantial diplomatic initiatives following the election of President Joseph Aoun. Jordan and Qatar’s involvement signifies regional support as Lebanon navigates post-conflict reconstruction and political stabilization. With key international figures visiting and promising aid, the future of Lebanon hinges on cohesive governance and compliance with ongoing ceasefire agreements with Israel, coupled with regional cooperation.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
