MBS orders resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday ordered the resumption of Lebanese exports to the Kingdom after a request from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to lift the five-year ban.

The decision was conveyed during a phone call with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, during which the Crown Prince reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for Lebanon’s stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the well-being of its people.

The Crown Prince also expressed confidence that Lebanon would take all necessary measures to ensure the country is not used “as a platform to harm its brothers,” according to a readout of the call published by the Saudi Press Agency.

Saudi Arabia imposed a ban on Lebanese fruit and vegetable imports in 2021 after authorities uncovered attempts to smuggle large quantities of narcotics into the Kingdom through shipments originating from Lebanon.

The move marks the latest sign of improving ties between Riyadh and Beirut following years of strained relations.