Prince Faisal to Make Historic Visit to Lebanon, Calls for Reforms and Optimism for Regional Stability
Davos, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan announced on Tuesday during the World Economic Forum in Davos that he would visit Lebanon later this week, marking the first trip by a Saudi foreign minister to the country in more than a decade. This one-day visit, scheduled for Thursday, comes as relations between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon begin to thaw following years of strained ties.
Prince Faisal highlighted the significance of Lebanon’s recent presidential election after a prolonged political vacuum, describing it as a “highly positive development.” He expressed optimism about the potential formation of a government but stressed the need for substantive reforms to secure sustainable progress.
“We will need to see real action, real reform, and a commitment to a Lebanon that is looking to the future, not to the past,” he said. He added that the Kingdom’s approach would depend on the outcomes of his visit and the steps taken by Lebanese leaders toward change.
Prince Faisal also addressed Syria’s future, expressing “cautious optimism” regarding recent developments in Damascus. He acknowledged positive signs from the new administration and the resilience of the Syrian people, emphasizing the importance of regional and international collaboration to rebuild Syria’s institutions and aid its recovery.
“The reality is that they have inherited a broken country with no real institutions,” Prince Faisal said. “It’s up to us in the region and the international community to engage and build on positive developments to help Syria and its people see a better future.”
The foreign minister also underscored the need to lift sanctions imposed on Syria due to actions of the previous regime, noting some progress in obtaining waivers from the US and Europe.
Prince Faisal concluded by addressing broader regional dynamics, highlighting the Gulf Cooperation Council’s economic resilience and the importance of avoiding conflicts, particularly amid tensions between Iran and Israel. He expressed hope for constructive engagement under the new US administration, led by President Donald Trump, to address critical issues, including Iran’s nuclear program.
The panel discussion also featured Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, who expressed optimism about the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. He emphasized the role of negotiations in resolving conflicts and welcomed the progress made in delivering humanitarian aid to the region.
This historic visit underscores Saudi Arabia’s evolving foreign policy priorities in the Middle East, focusing on fostering stability, economic growth, and diplomatic engagement across the region.
