Lebanese president in Saudi

Lebanese President Michel Aoun will today begin an official visit to Saudi Arabia, his first visit to a foreign country as head of state.

Lebanese politicians believe the visit will emphasise Lebanon’s Arab identity and boost historical relations between the two countries, amid national hopes that the visit will result in the revival of Saudi support for the military establishment and security forces.

Lebanon’s Minister of Information Melhem Riachy described Aoun’s visit as “positive” and said it would strengthen the relationship between the two countries, pointing out that the election of Aoun has restored confidence in Lebanon locally, regionally and internationally.

Leader of the Lebanese Forces, Samir Geagea, described the visit as “excellent” adding that it will address the Saudi military’s assistance for the Lebanese Army and the return of Gulf tourists to the country.

Lebanon’s Grand Mufti, Abdul Latif Derian, said that relations between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia have been continuous and expressed hope that the visit will boost relations between the two countries.

President of the Federation of Lebanese Commerce Chambers, Mohamed Choucair, said the visit would develop Lebanon’s economy.

Choucair pointed out that Gulf states import 60 per cent of Lebanon’s agricultural exports while half of industries are owned by Gulf entities and the largest hotels in Lebanon are either entirely or partially owned by Gulf investors.