UAE And Lebanon Strengthen Bilateral Relations During President Aoun's Official Visit

The United Arab Emirates and Lebanon have released a joint statement following the official visit of Joseph Aoun, President of Lebanon, to the UAE. The visit aimed to strengthen ties and enhance cooperation between the two nations. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed President Aoun at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, where they discussed bilateral relations and explored ways to boost collaboration across various sectors.

President Sheikh Mohamed expressed his hope that this visit would deepen the fraternal relations between the UAE and Lebanon. He emphasised his commitment to working with Lebanon to promote development, prosperity, security, and regional stability. The UAE's support for Lebanon’s security, stability, and sovereignty was also highlighted during their discussions.

The leaders explored opportunities to enhance economic and investment sectors through joint initiatives. They agreed on knowledge exchange and government development as key areas for collaboration. The Government Experience Exchange Office from the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs will visit Beirut to share best practices in government performance and institutional excellence.

Both sides expressed their desire to elevate mutual diplomatic representation levels. They agreed on establishing a joint UAE-Lebanon Business Council to foster economic ties further. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development will send a delegation to Lebanon to explore potential joint cooperation projects.

The two countries agreed on implementing necessary procedures to facilitate travel for citizens between the UAE and Lebanon. This move aims to ease movement between the two nations, enhancing people-to-people connections. Both sides also discussed raising diplomatic engagement levels by increasing mutual representation.

During their talks, regional developments were also addressed. President Aoun briefed Sheikh Mohamed on recent developments in Lebanon and broader regional affairs. Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed Lebanon's strategic importance within the Arab world, recognising it as a key pillar of joint Arab action.

Commitment to Regional Stability

The discussions included an assessment of regional developments impacting Arab-Arab relations and regional security. Both leaders underscored their commitment to fostering stability in the region through collaborative efforts. The UAE reiterated its supportive stance towards Lebanon at all levels.

President Aoun expressed gratitude towards Sheikh Mohamed for his kind sentiments towards Lebanon and its people. He affirmed his dedication to strengthening bilateral relations further while appreciating the UAE’s supportive role in aiding Lebanon across various domains.

This visit marks a significant step in consolidating bilateral relations between the UAE and Lebanon, with both nations committed to advancing shared interests for progress and prosperity.

With inputs from WAM