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SYRIA AND LEBANON

Beirut and Damascus ‘normalize’ relations

With the help of Saudi mediation and Hezbollah’s waning influence, the prime minister’s visit to Syria went far more smoothly than that of his predecessor.

Beirut and Damascus ‘normalize’ relations

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is received in Damascus by interim Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on April 14, 2025. (Photo courtesy of the Grand Serail)

Lebanon and Syria finally deal as equals. After decades of turbulent relations, marked by Syria’s longstanding bid to dominate its smaller neighbor, followed by Hezbollah’s heavy-handed involvement in the Syrian Civil War, the two countries now appear to be restoring their ties and addressing long-standing disputes.On Monday, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam traveled to Damascus, where he met with Syria’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa. The Lebanese delegation also included Foreign Minister Joe Rajji, Interior Minister Ahmad Hajjar, and Defense Minister Michel Menassa. It was the first official visit by the new Lebanese government, following the formation of Syria’s new cabinet in late March.“My visit to Damascus today aims to open a new chapter in relations between the two countries, based on mutual respect, the restoration of trust, good...
Lebanon and Syria finally deal as equals. After decades of turbulent relations, marked by Syria’s longstanding bid to dominate its smaller neighbor, followed by Hezbollah’s heavy-handed involvement in the Syrian Civil War, the two countries now appear to be restoring their ties and addressing long-standing disputes.On Monday, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam traveled to Damascus, where he met with Syria’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa. The Lebanese delegation also included Foreign Minister Joe Rajji, Interior Minister Ahmad Hajjar, and Defense Minister Michel Menassa. It was the first official visit by the new Lebanese government, following the formation of Syria’s new cabinet in late March.“My visit to Damascus today aims to open a new chapter in relations between the two countries, based on mutual respect, the restoration of...