Aoun arrives in Riyadh to strengthen Lebanon-Saudi relations

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived Monday in Riyadh, marking his first official visit outside Lebanon since his election as President. The visit is in response to an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

In a statement following his arrival, President Aoun expressed his happiness about the visit, viewing it as an opportunity to strengthen the historical ties between the two countries and to reaffirm Lebanon’s appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting its stability, security, and the functioning of its constitutional institutions.

He also praised the assistance provided by Saudi Arabia to Lebanon in various sectors, stressing the importance of furthering mutual cooperation.

President Aoun expressed his anticipation for his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later this evening, which is expected to pave the way for a future visit where agreements will be signed to enhance bilateral cooperation.

He also thanked Saudi Arabia for hosting the Lebanese community, which has contributed significantly to the Kingdom's development over the years.

Official Reception at King Khalid Airport

President Aoun’s plane landed at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh at 3:00 PM Saudi time, where he was welcomed by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, along with Riyadh Mayor Prince Faisal bin Ayaf Al Saud, Minister of Commerce Dr. Majed Al-Qasabi, and several other Saudi officials.

Among them were Prince Yazid bin Farhan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs' advisor and head of the Lebanese Affairs Committee, Riyadh Police Director General Major General Mansour Al-Otaibi, Royal Protocol Agent Fahad Al-Sahil, Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon Walid Bukhari, and Lebanese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Fawzi Kabbara.

Official Talks This Evening at Al-Yamamah Palace

After his arrival, President Aoun headed to the presidential lounge at the airport for a brief rest before heading to his residence at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

The President is scheduled to hold official talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace at 10:00 PM, where they will discuss bilateral issues and regional developments of mutual interest.