Lebanese President Joseph Aoun concluded a high-profile visit to Kuwait this week, where he held a summit with Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, affirming a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and deepening cooperation across a range of sectors.
The summit, which took place at the Amiri Diwan, was attended by Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, and senior officials from both countries.
According to a statement from the Amiri Diwan, the discussions centered on bolstering political and economic relations, reinforcing regional cooperation, and addressing the evolving situation in Lebanon.
The Emir expressed Kuwait’s unwavering support for Lebanon and described the moment as a “historic opportunity” for the country to chart a new course, overcome past challenges, and embark on a path of national reconstruction and stability.
In a significant diplomatic development, the Emir informed Aoun of Kuwait’s decision to restore full diplomatic representation between the two nations. The Lebanese president welcomed the move, calling it a vital step toward renewing and expanding ties.
“Lebanon remains committed to its relationship with Kuwait and the Arab world,” he said.
Aoun also praised Kuwait for its longstanding support in regional and international forums, particularly in defending Lebanon’s sovereignty and condemning repeated Israeli violations. The Emir, in turn, reaffirmed Kuwait’s support for Lebanon’s full territorial sovereignty under UN Resolution 425 and called for the implementation of Resolution 1701 and a cessation of Israeli hostilities.
Security cooperation emerged as a key theme during the summit, with both sides hailing the close coordination between their security agencies particularly in combating drug smuggling. Emir Sheikh Mishal described this collaboration as a “cornerstone” in confronting shared security threats.
Kuwait also reiterated its backing for the efforts of the Arab and international “Quintet” seeking a resolution to Lebanon’s political impasse, as well as ongoing reforms and military support. The Emir pledged Kuwait’s continued participation in aid conferences focused on Lebanon’s economic recovery and national defense.
The leaders also discussed the regional situation, including the importance of Syria’s stability and the need for a safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees to prevent further destabilization.
Separately, Aoun met with Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahd Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, who praised the Lebanese expatriate community in Kuwait for its positive contribution. The two officials agreed to ease travel and residency procedures for Lebanese nationals and encourage Kuwaiti investment in Lebanon.
In his meeting with Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Aoun stressed the need to revive previously signed cooperation agreements and increase joint efforts in trade and investment. Discussions also touched on the upcoming Arab Summit in Baghdad and the US-Gulf summit in Saudi Arabia.
