Regional Ties Rebuilt: Lebanon and Syria Pledge Lasting Relations
In a significant step towards rebuilding regional ties, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati visited Damascus, Syria, on Saturday, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of government to the city since the start of the civil war in 2011.
A New Era of Cooperation
Mikati’s trip came after Islamist-led rebels seized Damascus last month, bringing an end to the rule of Bashar al-Assad. Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, expressed hope to turn over a new leaf in relations, stating that there would be long-term strategic relations between Lebanon and Syria, with great shared interests. Sharaa emphasized the need to give the Syrian and Lebanese people a chance to build a positive relationship and praised the election of Joseph Aoun as Lebanon’s new president, hoping it would usher in an era of stability in the country.
Prioritizing Shared Interests
Both leaders stressed the importance of mutual respect, equality, and national sovereignty in their bilateral relations. They also emphasized the need to control borders and prevent smuggling. Mikati noted that the presence of two million Syrian refugees in Lebanon had become an urgent matter, and both sides agreed to work towards their safe return to Syria.
Addressing Border Issues
Lebanon and Syria have long-standing border issues, including the lack of official demarcation at several points. Mikati called for the creation of a joint committee to discuss the matter, with a focus on drawing up the land and sea borders between the two countries. Lebanon hopes to establish its maritime border to begin offshore gas extraction, following a similar agreement with Israel in 2022.
Stemming Smuggling
The Lebanese premier emphasized the need for complete control of borders, particularly over illicit border points, to stem smuggling. Syria shares a 330-kilometer border with Lebanon, which is currently porous and prone to smuggling.
Regional Reconciliation
Several foreign dignitaries have visited Damascus in recent weeks to meet the new leaders, including a delegation from Oman, which never severed diplomatic ties with Assad during the war. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, France’s Jean-Noel Barrot, and his German counterpart Annalena Baerbock have also visited Damascus.
Conclusion
The visit by Prime Minister Mikati marks a significant step towards rebuilding regional ties between Lebanon and Syria. The two countries have shared interests and a common history, and it is essential to work together to address their shared challenges. The return of Syrian refugees to their homeland is a top priority, and both sides must work together to ensure their safe and dignified return.
FAQs
Q: Why is the visit by Prime Minister Mikati significant?
A: The visit marks the first visit by a Lebanese head of government to Damascus since the start of the civil war in 2011, and it signals a new era of cooperation between the two countries.
Q: What are the shared interests between Lebanon and Syria?
A: The two countries share a common history and have long-standing ties. They also face similar challenges, including the presence of Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
Q: What are the main issues that need to be addressed between Lebanon and Syria?
A: The two countries need to work together to address their border issues, including the lack of official demarcation at several points. They also need to stem smuggling and prevent the spread of terrorism.
Q: What is the current situation in Syria?
A: Syria is currently in the process of rebuilding after a devastating civil war that has killed more than half a million people and ravaged the country’s economy. The new leadership is working to restore stability and security to the country.