Baabda:President Joseph Aoun hosted an official Syrian delegation at Baabda Palace, engaging in discussions to enhance Lebanese-Syrian relations through balance, mutual respect, non-interference, and deeper economic integration.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, the Syrian delegation was led by Economy and Industry Minister Mohammad Nidal Al-Shaar, along with several other Syrian ministers and officials. The Lebanese side included Economy and Trade Minister Amer Bisat and other prominent figures.
Al-Shaar conveyed greetings from Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, expressing Damascus's desire to open a "new page" in relations with Lebanon, focusing on peace and a balanced partnership. He emphasized the importance of the private sector in economic recovery and suggested merging the two bilateral business councils to create a stronger platform for joint development.
Minister Bisat stated that efforts are being made to formalize Lebanese-Syrian relations through agreements reflecting shared interests. He highlighted the potential for the two countries to contribute to a new regional land corridor and emphasized complementary economic ties.
President Aoun viewed the visit as a positive sign of improving relations and reiterated his support for regional economic integration. He underlined the strategic Mediterranean location of Lebanon and Syria as crucial for regional trade, especially during disruptions elsewhere.
He also noted the interlinked stability of Lebanon and Syria, advocating for progress in both security and economic stability to enhance regional resilience.