Saudi Arabia, Lebanon Kick Off New Chapter in Relations

Asharq Al-Awsat

04-03-2025

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, held official talks in Riyadh on Monday with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
Aoun was on his first official visit abroad since his election in January and was visiting the Kingdom at Crown Prince Mohammed's invitation.
The visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and their development on all political, economic and social levels given the keenness on the two countries' leaderships on bolstering ties, said observers.
Ahead of the talks, Aoun said 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.'
He added that he was looking forward to the talks he will hold with Crown Prince Mohammed that will pave the way for a future visit during which agreements aimed at bolstering cooperation between the fraternal nations will be signed.
The observers underlined Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting Lebanon's security and stability, as well as on the political, economic and social levels.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, shakes hands with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun during his visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 3, 2025. (SPA)
They noted its effective role in ending Lebanon's 1975-90 civil war and its constant stances in solidarity with the Lebanese people, in addition to its relief and humanitarian aid for them.
Aoun acknowledged this support, saying the visit is an opportunity to thank Saudi Arabia for hosting Lebanese people who have flocked to it for several years and who continue to do so, noting their contributions to its construction and economic rise.
Moreover, the observers said the developments in the Middle East, especially in Lebanon, demand coordination between Beirut and Riyadh to bolster regional security and prosperity, and achieve the aspirations of the Lebanese people.
They said Aoun and Saudi Arabia are in agreement over the need to empower the Lebanese state and enable it to ensure its sovereignty and impose its authority throughout its territories.
Saudi Arabia has long stood by Lebanon and its people, stressing the need to commit to the latest ceasefire with Israel and for Israel to withdraw its troops from the country.
It has demanded the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolution 1701 and relevant agreements, expressing its confidence that Aoun could kick off necessary reforms that would support Lebanon's stability and unity and preserve national institutions. This would in turn build trust with Lebanon's partners and help the country restore its position in the Arab fold.