Mikati Engages with Syria’s Al-Sharaa: Emphasizes Commitment to Strengthening Relations Founded on National Sovereignty Principles

In a historic diplomatic move, Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati traveled to Damascus on Saturday to engage in discussions with Syria’s acting leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa. This visit represents the first instance of a Lebanese prime minister visiting Syria in more than ten years.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, along with a high-level delegation comprising Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib and senior security officials, arrived at Damascus International Airport on a Lebanese commercial flight. The visit comes in response to an official invitation from Syrian Vice President Farouk Al-Sharaa, conveyed during a phone conversation last week.

During a joint press briefing, Al-Sharaa announced, “We are seizing the opportunity to forge a constructive relationship in the forthcoming phases, grounded in the sovereignty of both Lebanon and Syria. We pledge to remain neutral towards all factions in Lebanon and are committed to addressing and resolving any issues.”

In a historic diplomatic development, the Lebanese Prime Minister has undertaken an official visit to Damascus, marking the first such trip by a Lebanese head of government since 2010.

On January 11, 2025, a report was released by The Cradle via their Twitter platform, as referenced by the hyperlink to their tweet.

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He further confirmed that both parties engaged in discussions concerning bilateral relations, with specific focus on issues such as smuggling and the status of Syrian deposits held in Lebanese financial institutions.

Al-Sharaa further elaborated by stating, “We have also addressed the matter concerning the demarcation of borders between the two nations.”

In a statement expressing optimism, Mikati emphasized the importance of fostering good neighborly relations and mutual respect between the two nations. He affirmed the commitment to strengthening these ties on the foundation of national sovereignty, underscoring the duty to prevent any actions that could potentially harm the relationship.

He emphasized the critical need to tackle the refugee crisis, highlighting that the urgency of facilitating the return of refugees to Syria is of mutual benefit to both nations. This matter has increasingly strained Lebanon’s resources, he noted, adding that there is a shared understanding of the situation’s gravity.

The leaders placed significant emphasis on border security to protect both nations from potential threats. Prime Minister Mikati stated, “This visit signifies a positive beginning, and the assurances I’ve received from Mr. Al-Sharaa concerning bilateral relations provide me with confidence.”

The visit follows the election of Lebanon’s army chief, Joseph Aoun, as president, effectively bringing an end to a presidential vacancy that lasted over two years, just two days prior.