Lebanon resumes exports to Saudi Arabia after five-year ban lifted

Lebanon's trade with Saudi Arabia has officially restarted with the departure of the first export shipment from Beirut to Jeddah. This marks the end of a five-year ban, which was imposed due to rampant smuggling activities. The resumption of trade follows the implementation of strict measures by Lebanese authorities at the country's ports and border crossings.

The departure ceremony at Beirut Port was attended by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, several ministers, and the new Saudi Ambassador to Beirut, Fahd Al-Dosari. Prime Minister Salam affirmed Lebanon's commitment to security and prosperity within the Arab world, stating, "Lebanon will never again allow itself to be a launching pad for any harm against our Arab brothers, but will instead serve as a partner in their security, stability, and prosperity."

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Lebanon will never again allow itself to be a launching pad for any harm against our Arab brothers, but will instead serve as a partner in their security, stability, and prosperity.

Ambassador Al-Dosari echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's unwavering support for Lebanon's stability, sovereignty, and the well-being of its people. He highlighted the Kingdom's confidence in Lebanon's ability to prevent its territory from being used to harm neighboring countries. This decision to lift the ban was directed by Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman on June 10, acknowledging the positive steps taken by the Lebanese government to strengthen state institutions, following requests from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Salam.

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In light of the positive steps taken by the Lebanese state, we are gathered today to witness the resumption of the first Lebanese exports to the Kingdom. This step underscores Saudi Arabia’s support for Lebanon’s stability, its sovereignty over all its territory, and the well-being of its people. It also reflects the Kingdom’s confidence in the Lebanese state’s ability to take the necessary measures to ensure that its territory is not used as a platform to harm its brothers.