Saudi Arabia and Lebanon stressed on Tuesday the importance of strengthening Arab cooperation and coordinating the two countries' positions on major regional and international issues.
In a joint statement issued at the end of President Joseph Aoun's visit to Saudi Arabia, the two sides reaffirmed the need for the full implementation of the Taif Agreement, the enforcement of international resolutions, the extension of the Lebanese state's sovereignty over its entire territory and the monopoly of arms in the hands of the official authorities. They also emphasized the role of the Lebanese army and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese soil.
During the meeting, the two sides reviewed bilateral relations between the two countries and ways of developing them in all fields. They also reaffirmed that Lebanon is an integral part of the Arab world, adding that its relations with the countries of the region are an essential guarantee of its security and stability.
They also agreed to study the obstacles to the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia, and the measures needed to enable Saudi citizens to travel to Lebanon once again.
The two countries also stressed the importance of implementing the commitments made by the Lebanese President in his inaugural speech and insisted on compliance with the principles set out in the Lebanese government's ministerial declaration.
On the economic front, they agreed on the need to revive the Lebanese economy and bring it out of its current crisis, by implementing the reforms demanded internationally, in accordance with the principles of transparency and the application of the laws in force.
Finally, Aoun officially invited the Crown Prince to pay a visit to Lebanon, an invitation which the latter welcomed with gratitude and consideration.
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