NNA - President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, on Wednesday received an official invitation to visit Iraq from Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, delivered by the Chargé d’Affaires of the Iraqi Embassy in Beirut, Ms. Nada Karim Majoul. 

In his message, Al-Sudani emphasized the deep ties between the two countries and expressed his hope to welcome President Aoun in Baghdad soon to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral cooperation. 

In turn, President Aoun thanked Ms. Majoul for the invitation, affirming his willingness to visit and stressing the importance of consolidating relations between Lebanon and Iraq.

President Aoun later received a delegation from the Syndicate of Fruit and Vegetable Importers and Exporters, headed by Naeem Saleh Khalil. The delegation congratulated Aoun on his election and expressed hope for revitalizing agricultural exports. 

Khalil outlined sector challenges, particularly export restrictions to Gulf countries, and urged Aoun to prioritize restoring trade with Saudi Arabia. 

In response, President Aoun underscored ongoing efforts to lift export bans and highlighted Lebanon’s historic role in exporting high-quality goods.

The President also reaffirmed that Saudi Arabia remained an economic lifeline and stressed the need for internal reforms to rebuild trust with Arab partners.

President Aoun later met with a delegation from the Association of Global Vehicle Manufacturers’ Representatives, who raised concerns over outdated vehicle fleets, port delays, and administrative dysfunctions. 

Aoun promised swift action, particularly within the Vehicle Registration Authority, and reiterated his commitment to implementing e-government reforms.

Aoun also discussed broader national issues and administrative decentralization during a meeting with former Minister Ziad Baroud.

==========R.H.