Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and caretaker Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati have had a cordial encounter on the sidelines of the Arab League’s Jeddah summit, Arab sources who were present at the gathering told Asharq Al-Awsat.
Prior to entering the conference hall, Assad and Mikati had a meeting where they discussed “common issues.”
Sources, who requested anonymity, highlighted the friendly and positive atmosphere of the meeting, which sets a solid groundwork for future interactions.
This meeting represents a notable milestone in the series of high-level meetings between the neighboring countries since the start of the Syrian crisis in 2011.
Lebanese government sources also conveyed Mikati’s strong satisfaction with the summit’s atmosphere.
They underscored Lebanon’s unwavering position on the significance of strengthening relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stating that Mikati will diligently follow the summit’s decisions concerning Lebanon in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
On Saturday, Mikati expressed his gratitude for the influential role played by the Arab summit in Jeddah, emphasizing its ability to unite Arabs based on shared interests and collective concerns.
Additionally, he conveyed his confidence in “Saudi Arabia's approach, which fosters stability across the entire region.”
In an interview with Al-Hadath channel, the day after delivering Lebanon’s speech at the Arab summit in Jeddah, Mikati said: “Through my observations, I have noticed rapid and organized efforts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the train has set off towards resolving all issues with Arab countries and neighboring nations.”
“The foundation lies in human development, stability, and economic progress,” he added.
Mikati appealed to brotherly Arab nations to sponsor a form of intra-Lebanese dialogue to achieve stability in the country and elect a president.
He also urged for assistance to help Lebanon overcome the suffocating economic and social crisis it is facing.
Describing the Jeddah summit as a “healing wounds” gathering, Mikati highlighted its significance considering the preceding agreement to mend relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Furthermore, the summit marked the reintegration of Syria, a fellow nation, in assuming its full role within the Arab League.
Mikati pointed out that the prolonged duration of the Syrian crisis, its stalled resolution, and the significant increase in the number of displaced persons have made the displacement crisis a tremendous burden for Lebanon to bear.
This burden is evident in terms of its infrastructure, social repercussions, and political implications domestically. Furthermore, Mikati emphasized the natural right of these displaced individuals to return to their cities and villages.
Mikati confirmed Lebanon's adherence to international decisions from the UN Security Council and Arab League resolutions. He stressed respect for the interests and sovereignty of sister nations, along with efforts to combat illicit trafficking that threatens their stability.
The Lebanese premier expressed a strong commitment driven by a sense of responsibility and a genuine desire for the security and purity of fraternal relations.
Mikati praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for leading Saudi Arabia to prominent and innovative positions and turning it into a productive nation. He expressed hope for the Kingdom’s fraternal support and attention to Lebanon.
