Aoun-Bin Salman meeting
yields no commercial defrost

To begin studying the obstacles

In an indication that the lifting of political obstacles need to precede commercial ones, the Lebanese-Saudi summit in Riyadh has not produced an immediate defrost in the commercial and travel freeze imposed by the Kingdom.

In a joint statement following their meeting, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman focused on political issues while announcing only the initiation of a review process regarding Saudi bans on Lebanese imports and travel.

“The two sides agreed to begin studying the obstacles facing the resumption of exports from the Lebanese Republic to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the necessary procedures to allow Saudi citizens to travel to the Lebanese Republic,” the statement read.

Both leaders emphasized the urgency of Lebanon’s economic recovery, linking it to internationally mandated reforms, transparency, and adherence to binding laws.

On political matters, the statement reaffirmed the importance of fully implementing the Taif Agreement, adhering to international resolutions, extending state sovereignty over all Lebanese territories, and restricting arms to the Lebanese state. It also underscored the Lebanese army’s national role, the need for its continued support, and the necessity of Israel’s withdrawal from all Lebanese territories.

President Aoun extended an invitation to the Saudi Crown Prince to Lebanon. “His Highness expressed his appreciation for this invitation and welcomed it,” read the statement.