Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday in Abu Dhabi, launching a new phase in Lebanese-Emirati relations marked by renewed cooperation and mutual support.
The summit, held at Al Shati Palace shortly after Aoun’s arrival, highlighted both leaders’ commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
“The past is behind us,” Aoun said, adding that Lebanon is “regaining its presence, capacity, and sovereignty,” with state institutions working together to build the country’s future.
Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the UAE’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, stressing the importance of strong Lebanese institutions in ensuring national stability. He also noted that the recent reopening of the UAE embassy in Beirut signals a renewed commitment to deeper, more fruitful relations.
Aoun, who was accompanied by Foreign Minister Youssef Raji, was received at Abu Dhabi International Airport by UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister Khalifa Shaheen, and Lebanese Ambassador to the UAE Fouad Shihab Dandan.
During a broader meeting with Emirati and Lebanese officials, Sheikh Mohamed described the two countries’ relationship as historic and deeply rooted in mutual respect and shared values.
“The ties between the UAE and Lebanon are strong, and the people of both nations share longstanding bonds of goodwill,” he said.
Aoun expressed appreciation for the UAE’s hospitality to the Lebanese diaspora, which numbers around 190,000. He also thanked Sheikh Mohamed for responding positively to the reopening of the UAE embassy in Lebanon, a pledge made during a congratulatory call following Aoun’s election.
“Lebanon is going through a challenging period,” Aoun acknowledged. “But the state is recovering, and the situation is evolving. We are working together for a better future.” He emphasized regional unity, stating: “The Arab world is one body - when one part suffers, the whole is affected.”
Aoun also paid tribute to the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, calling him a visionary leader who propelled the UAE into the ranks of the world’s most advanced nations.
The summit concluded with a one-on-one meeting between the two presidents that lasted approximately 30 minutes.
