Foreign leaders promise
political and economic support

Agreements with KSA

being readied to be signed

A historic week turned a page on prolonged political stalemates. The election of a new President and nomination of a Prime Minister sparked a wave of optimism and a flurry of diplomatic activity, with foreign dignitaries pledging substantial support to bolster the country’s fragile economy and governance.

Among the prominent visitors were United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, French President Emmanuel Macron, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, and delegations from several Gulf states. Their collective message emphasized solidarity with Lebanon as it embarks on a critical path to recovery.

“The international community stands ready to assist in rebuilding trust, stability, and economic prosperity,” said Guterres. He announced an expansion of UN-backed programs focusing on food security, education, and governance reforms.

President Macron unveiled a new aid package of $500 million aimed at revitalizing key sectors, including energy, healthcare, and education. “This moment calls for bold and unified action,” Macron said, urging Lebanese leaders to capitalize on the newfound political unity to enact structural reforms.

The Arab League’s Secretary-General said that Lebanon is to expect financial support from several member states. Gulf nations pledged investments in infrastructure and trade to stimulate growth, with a focus on rebuilding Lebanon’s ports and enhancing regional connectivity.

The election of new leadership has renewed hope in Lebanon, which has grappled with years of economic turmoil, corruption, and governance challenges. International leaders underscored the importance of accountability, urging the government to implement long-delayed reforms, including a transparent financial recovery plan and anti-corruption measures.

The new President, in his inaugural address, vowed to prioritize economic recovery and restore public confidence. The Prime Minister designate echoed these sentiments, emphasizing collaboration with international partners to secure a sustainable path forward.

News from Saudi Arabia expects that during an upcoming visit of President Joseph Aoun to Saudi Arabia – his first post-election official visit, 22 agreements ready since 2017. It is also expected that banks on Lebanese exports and visits from Saudi Nationals to Lebanon will be lifted. The agreements are:

• Agreement for trade cooperation between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia
• Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in exhibitions
• Cooperation agreement in the field of intellectual property
• Cooperation agreement in consumer protection
• Cooperation agreement in the field of grains
• Cooperation agreement in the environment, agriculture, and water sectors
• Cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Information
• Cooperation agreement in education and higher education
• Cultural cooperation agreement related to Dar Al-Fatwa
• Cooperation agreement in the housing sector
• Cooperation agreement in investment in maritime transport
• Agreement on mutual recognition of certificates of competency related to exports
• Cooperation agreement for the transport of passengers and goods across land borders
• Cooperation agreement in civil defense
• Cooperation agreement in the judicial field
• Cooperation agreement between the Central Bank of Lebanon and the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority
• Agreement to enhance technical cooperation in standards, laboratories, and quality systems
• Customs cooperation agreement
• Cooperation agreement in military defense
• Cooperation agreement to combat terrorism
• Cooperation agreement to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion
• Cooperation agreement between the General Directorate of Civil Aviation in Lebanon and Saudi Arabia