Saudi Arabia has lifted a five-year ban on Lebanese imports, marking a significant step towards rebuilding relations between Lebanon and Gulf countries.
The ban, imposed in 2021, was initially targeted at Lebanese fruits and vegetables, but was later extended to all Lebanese products after Lebanon's then-Information Minister George Kordahi publicly criticized Saudi Arabia's war against Iran-backed rebels in Yemen.
The reversal of the ban was announced by Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry, citing 'positive steps taken by the Lebanese state', although it did not specify what those steps were.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun thanked Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the decision, saying it will contribute to reviving the national economy and supporting Lebanese producers and exporters.
The move comes as the current government of Lebanon seeks to rebuild ties with Gulf countries, with officials courting Gulf tourists to return to the country in hopes of reviving the economy.
