LEBANESE President Joseph Aoun has commended Bahrain’s support for his country’s security, unity and stability.
During a meeting with editors-in-chief of local newspapers yesterday, he commended the honourable positions of Bahrain, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad.
He praised Bahrain’s commitment to supporting its Arab partners and its initiatives aimed at strengthening joint action and preserving Arab unity.
President Aoun began his visit with a meeting with Chargé d’Affaires Mirna Khouli, who briefed him on the relations and updated him on the affairs of the Lebanese community in Bahrain.
President Aoun then met the editors-in-chief of Bahraini newspapers and the Bahrain News Agency, responding to questions that focused on the situation in Lebanon and the impact of regional developments on its stability.
He expressed his keen interest in the meeting scheduled today with His Majesty and senior Bahraini officials where he will discuss topics of mutual interest, including the reopening of the Bahraini embassy in Lebanon following the appointment of a non-resident ambassador, facilitating entry visas for Lebanese citizens, the resumption of Gulf Air flights and boosting economic and agricultural co-operation.
The President said his visits to Gulf countries aim to restore relations and, more importantly, rebuild trust between Lebanon and the Gulf.
He noted that the Lebanese people are looking forward to welcoming their Bahraini brothers and sisters this summer and to sharing Lebanon’s renowned hospitality, natural beauty and pleasant climate.
President Aoun also briefed the media on the government’s efforts to enhance security, combat smuggling and reopen Gulf markets to Lebanese agricultural exports, especially that the country’s land, sea and air border crossings are now under full security control.
He also addressed the state’s exclusive right to bear arms and the importance of enforcing this decision, underscoring that only the state has the authority to declare war or peace.
The Lebanese President confirmed that reforms are progressing across various sectors, particularly in banking, where the government is working with Parliament to pass necessary legislation.
President Aoun stated that ‘the page of the past has been turned’ and that there is no reason to fear for Lebanon.
He described his Gulf tour as successful, noting the Gulf countries’ eagerness to return to Lebanon and their willingness to continue supporting the Lebanese people.
“We have built bridges, and the future looks promising,” he said.
President Aoun praised Bahrain’s election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, calling it ‘a sign of the world’s confidence’ in Bahrain, and expressed confidence that it will champion Arab causes, including the Lebanese issue, in this important international forum.
President Aoun will visit the Bahrain Economic Development Board before heading to Gudaibiya Palace for talks with the King and senior officials, following an official reception.
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