Saudi Arabia to consider resuming Lebanon imports, lifting travel ban

Saudi Arabia and the Lebanese government recently announced that they will jointly review the "obstacles" hindering the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and the lifting of the Saudi ban on its citizens traveling to Lebanon. This move aims to improve relations between the two countries and promote the recovery of their economies and tourism industries.

The announcement was made in a joint statement released after a meeting in Riyadh between Lebanese President Michel Aoun and Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). This meeting marks Aoun's first visit since taking office in January, holding significant symbolic importance for both nations.

Saudi Arabia's interest in Lebanese politics has been rekindled following the reduced influence of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah. The joint statement indicated that both sides agreed to begin studying the obstacles hindering the resumption of exports from the Lebanese Republic to Saudi Arabia, as well as the necessary measures to allow Saudi citizens to travel to Lebanon. The statement was released by the Saudi Press Agency.

In April 2021, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia suspended imports of fruits and vegetables from Lebanon, citing the use of shipments for drug smuggling and accusing Beirut of inaction. In 2019, Saudi Arabia was the largest destination for Lebanese agricultural exports, accounting for 22.1% of total exports. Since 2021, due to strained relations, Saudi citizens have also been required to obtain government permission before traveling to Lebanon.

Furthermore, the two countries also agreed on "the necessity of the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces from Lebanese territory." During his visit, President Aoun also stated that he would "seek to restore military aid as much as possible," after Riyadh halted $3 billion in military aid to the Lebanese army in 2016, citing Hezbollah's influence.