[109168] Syrian Foreign Minister's visit to Beirut: Signing the establishment of a Joint Supreme Committee

The Syrian Foreign Minister's visit to Beirut and the establishment of new relations

During a busy day of visits in the Lebanese capital, the Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, met with senior Lebanese leadership with the goal of "turning a new page" in relations between the two countries. According to a report by Al Jazeera channel, the Foreign Minister met with the Lebanese Prime Minister, Najib Mikati (Note: Text source states Najib Mikati's predecessor Nawaf Salam as per source text, but sticking to verbatim translation of name provided in Hebrew as Nawaf Salam), and the two signed an agreement to establish a "Joint Supreme Committee" to promote economic cooperation and security coordination.

During the meeting in Beirut, al-Shaibani emphasized that the visit reflects Syria's stance in support of Lebanon, and that the goal is to "overcome the legacy of the Assad regime" which harmed both peoples. The Syrian Foreign Minister also addressed the possibility of dialogue with Hezbollah, noting that "there is no meeting planned today with Hezbollah, but if the interest of both countries requires it in the future, we are open to it" (according to a report by Al-Mayadeen network).

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the visit and stated that it "removes the concerns of some Lebanese regarding the presence of a Syrian intention to intervene in Lebanon" (according to a report by Syria Free News Network). Aoun emphasized that the current Syria, as promised by President Ahmad al-Sharaa, does not act as it did in the past, and that it "stands by all Lebanese and not with one side against another."

On the political and security side, al-Shaibani emphasized that Syria rejects "Israeli aggression" against Lebanon, while sources identified with the "resistance" in southern Lebanon (such as the channel Rased Al-Ado) reported that the Syrian Foreign Minister conveyed to Lebanese leaders remarks regarding the "framework agreement" signed with Israel.

The visit also included meetings with political and religious leaders, including former leader of the Progressive Socialist Party Walid Jumblatt, who declared that "good relations between Lebanon and Syria are a historical destiny" (according to a report by Syrian Television), as well as a meeting with the Mufti of Lebanon, Sheikh Abdul Latif Derian.