Lebanese president starts Saudi visit

Lebanese President Michel Aoun is due to embark Monday on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, in his first visit to a state since assuming power last October.

The president will be accompanied by Lebanese ministers of foreign affairs, interior, defence, finance, education, information and economy.

Lebanese politicians believe the visit underscores the Arab identity of Lebanon as well as the distinguished historic relations binding the two countries.

Lebanese officials hope the visit would give impetus to bilateral relations at all levels along with reviving Saudi support for Lebanon's legitimate military institution.

Aoun's visit is a positive step toward boosting bilateral relations, Information Minister Melhem Riachy said.

Hailing the visit, Head of the Lebanese Forces Party Samir Geagea said that it's agenda will be topped by tackling military support for the Lebanese army as well as the return of gulf tourists to Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Lebanese Grand Mufti Abdellatif Derian expressed hope that the visit would pave the way for deeper bilateral relations.

Source: MENA