Syria’s de facto leader Ahmed al-Sharaa met Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Damascus on Saturday, marking the first visit by a head of government to Syria since Bashar al-Assad was toppled. The meeting aimed to improve strained relations between the two countries and focus on strengthening their shared border.
Ties between Damascus and Beirut have been complicated since they gained independence in the 1940s. The pair agreed to work together to secure their land borders, demarcate their shared borders, and address concerns over Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
The Lebanese PM emphasized the need to prioritize border security and prevent illegal smuggling. Al-Sharaa also discussed Syrian deposits in Lebanese banks, which have been inaccessible due to a financial crisis in Lebanon. He expressed hope for a “positive relationship” between the two countries, citing an opportunity to build on past negative relations.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun welcomed the historic meeting, describing it as a chance for “serious and equitable dialogue.” The visit came after nearly 800,000 Syrians are registered as refugees in Lebanon, placing a significant burden on public services.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/lebanon-says-will-work-with-syria-strengthen-borders-2025-01-11