Lebanon's new president aims to strengthen ties with Syria, boost national sovereignty

Lebanese Army Commander and newly elected President Joseph Aoun has expressed his intention to improve relations with neighbouring Syria, aiming to enhance Lebanon's national sovereignty.

Speaking after taking the oath of office, Aoun called the opportunity "historical," highlighting the potential for serious dialogue with Syria to resolve issues such as missing persons and displaced citizens, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

“We have a historic opportunity to start a serious dialogue with the Syrian state to resolve all the unresolved issues, including the matter of the missing citizens and displaced persons,” Aoun stated during his inaugural speech.

The President further affirmed that Lebanon would adopt a policy of positive neutrality in its relations with the rest of the world. "I tell the Lebanese, wherever they are, that a new stage is beginning in their lives and in the history of Lebanon," he noted. "As president, I will act as a fair mediator, ensuring equal rights for all Lebanese communities."

Aoun also acknowledged the severe crisis the country is facing and stressed the need for a change in governance methods to overcome the challenges. "Together with the future government, we will cooperate, not conflict, and we will draft a law that will guarantee the independence of the judiciary," he assured, also promising to introduce a law on administrative decentralization.

In terms of security, Aoun revealed plans to develop "a new defence doctrine for Lebanon, which will protect the country from Israeli aggression," while underscoring that "the state monopolizes the right to bear arms."

To recap, Lebanon's parliament has elected Army Chief Joseph Aoun as the new president, bringing an end to a prolonged political deadlock and presidential vacancy. Aoun, backed by the United States and Saudi Arabia, was elected after two rounds of voting. He officially stepped down from his military role and took the oath of office in civilian attire.

Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, when former President Michel Aoun's term ended. The election follows significant regional shifts, including a US-brokered ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel and the weakening of Hezbollah’s position. Despite initial opposition, Hezbollah and its ally Amal are believed to have supported Aoun in the second round, helping him secure 99 votes.

Aoun’s election marks a new chapter in Lebanon’s political history, under its power-sharing system that traditionally reserves the presidency for a Maronite Christian.

By Aghakazim Guliyev