Riyadh: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman engaged in official talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Riyadh on Monday evening to discuss recent developments in Lebanon and the broader region. This meeting marked Aoun's first foreign visit since he assumed office in January.

According to Anadolu Agency, a statement from the Saudi Foreign Ministry indicated that an official discussion session between the two leaders took place at the Royal Court in Al-Yamama Palace, although no details were disclosed. The state news agency SPA reported that the leaders reviewed the bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and explored avenues to strengthen their ties. The discussions also focused on the latest developments in the region.

Aoun's visit to Saudi Arabia is the first official Lebanese visit to the kingdom in eight years. It signifies an effort by Lebanese authorities to mend relations with Arab countries and bolster ties between Beirut and Riyadh. Upon his arrival in Riyadh, Aoun emphasized the significance of his visit as an opportunity to reaffirm the strong Lebanese-Saudi relations.

He highlighted that the visit serves as a chance to express Lebanon's appreciation for Saudi Arabia's role in supporting Lebanon's stability, security, and the functioning of its constitutional institutions. Aoun also expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for welcoming Lebanese expatriates who have contributed to its urban and economic development over the years.

Joseph Aoun, a former army chief, was elected president on January 9, ending a more than two-year presidential vacancy in Lebanon due to political disagreements. Last month, Nawaf Salam formed a new government in Lebanon, the first since 2022, after securing votes from 95 members of the 128-seat parliament.