As Lebanese President Joseph Aoun arrived in Washington yesterday, all eyes are on the unfolding atmosphere ahead of his official visit this Tuesday. President Donald Trump is set to receive Aoun at the White House, and there is considerable anticipation regarding the outcomes of their meeting and its impact on developments in Lebanon.
President Aoun landed at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington on Saturday evening, accompanied by Lebanon's First Lady, Naamat Aoun.
Upon his arrival, Aoun met with Lebanon’s ambassador to Washington, Nna Mouawad, and embassy officials, receiving updates on their operations and the status of the Lebanese community, among other topics related to his state visit.
President Aoun is scheduled to engage in meetings and consultations with several U.S. officials, including Senate members and key administration figures, among them Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who will host him today.
According to a statement from the Lebanese presidency, President Aoun's meetings will focus on discussing measures to solidify the ceasefire and restore security and stability in Lebanon, particularly in the south. Additionally, talks will address the withdrawal of Israel from occupied Lebanese territories and the extension of state authority over all regions.
Before departing Lebanon, President Aoun had discussions with Presidents Nabih Berri and Naufal Salam, briefing them on his upcoming meeting with Trump and outlining the issues he plans to raise.
It was learned that President Berri reiterated his stance on the need for Israel's withdrawal from occupied territories, suggesting a systematic withdrawal from districts rather than isolated villages.
A political source following the situation told "An-Nahar" that President Aoun's visit to Washington and his awaited meeting with Trump will significantly influence negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, as well as the security landscape in Lebanon, particularly in the south, which will become apparent following the U.S.-Lebanese summit. The source noted that Lebanon should take full advantage of this exceptional meeting, which is the first between a Lebanese head of state and a U.S. President since 2009, highlighting President Trump's personal interest in Lebanese issues and his appreciation for President Aoun, as expressed on multiple occasions.