Aoun in Riyadh: A Step Forward in Saudi-Lebanese Relations

Leaders

04-03-2025

The Lebanese President, Joseph Aoun, on Tuesday wrapped up an official visit to Saudi Arabia, his first overseas trip since assuming office.
During his visit to Riyadh, the Lebanese President met with the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing the depth of relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and expressing appreciation for the Kingdom's support for Lebanon's stability. Emphasizing Depth of Saudi-Lebanese Ties
On Monday, Aoun arrived at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, along with Lebanon's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, Youssef Raji, according to the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA). The visit came at the invitation of the Saudi Crown Prince, marking Aoun's first visit abroad since he became president in January 2025.
Upon his arrival, Aoun stated that the visit is 'an opportunity to emphasize the depth of the Lebanese-Saudi relations.'
Ahead of his meeting with the Saudi Crown Prince, the Lebanese President expressed hope that their talks 'will pave the way for a future visit during which agreements will be signed to enhance cooperation between the two brotherly countries.' Expressing Gratitude
Aoun added that the visit also represents an occasion to express Lebanon's appreciation for Saudi Arabia's role in 'supporting Lebanon's stability, safety, and the functioning of its constitutional institutions.'
Moreover, the Lebanese President showed appreciation for the Kingdom's support for various sectors in Lebanon through providing assistance. He also expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for hosting Lebanese expatriates over the years, highlighting their contributions to its urban and economic development.
📹 | HRH the Crown Prince receives the President of Lebanon at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
pic.twitter.com/ywBDQglyUB
— Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) March 3, 2025
In January 2025, Lebanon elected the army commander, Joseph Aoun, as president after the country's parliament voted for him, ending a more than two-year-long presidential vacuum.
Aoun's election came shortly after a ceasefire deal between Hezbollah and Israel, which ended the 14-month fighting between both sides. Meeting Saudi Crown Prince
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Aoun at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, with an official reception ceremony, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). After that, they held official talks.
During their meeting, both the Saudi Crown Prince and the Lebanese President discussed the latest developments in Lebanon and the region and the efforts made in that regard. Furthermore, the two leaders reviewed the Saudi-Lebanese relations and explored ways to further strengthen them.
The reception saw the attendance of several senior Saudi and Lebanese officials, including the Saudi Minister of State and Member of the Cabinet, Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd; the Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman; and the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Moreover, the Lebanese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Youssef Rajji, and the Lebanese Ambassador to the Kingdom, Fawzi Kabbara, were present. Joint Statement
On Tuesday, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon issued a joint statement after the conclusion of Aoun's visit. In the statement, both countries stressed the importance of strengthening Arab cooperation and coordinating positions on regional and international issues.
Furthermore, they underscored the significance of implementing the Taif Agreement and relevant international resolutions. They also emphasized the need to ensure Lebanon's sovereignty over all its territories, restrict weapons to the Lebanese state, and support the national role of the Lebanese army. Moreover, the statement called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from all Lebanese territories.
In terms of economy, both countries agreed on studying the obstacles impeding the resumption of exports from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia, and the required procedures to facilitate Saudi travel to Lebanon. They also underscored the significance of Lebanon's economic recovery and the implementation of reforms, in line with international standards and law. Saudi Unwavering Support
In January, the Saudi Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, made a landmark visit to Lebanon, the first by a high-ranking Saudi official in 15 years. During the visit, Prince Faisal met with Aoun, reiterating the Kingdom's unwavering support for Lebanon and the Lebanese people.
Earlier, the Saudi Foreign Minister expressed optimism about Aoun's election, saying it was 'extremely positive' after a prolonged political vacuum. He also emphasized the need for implementing real reforms and adopting a forward-looking approach to ensure Lebanon's sustainable progress.
'We need to see real action, real reform, and a commitment to a Lebanon that looks to the future, not the past. Saudi Arabia's approach to Lebanon would depend on tangible progress and constructive dialogue,' the Foreign Minister said.
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