Sat Jan 11 12:15:31 UTC 2025: ## Lebanese PM Makes Historic Visit to Syria Amidst Regional Restructuring
**Damascus, Syria –** In a significant development signaling improved relations between the two countries, Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati made a landmark visit to Damascus on January 11, 2025, the first such visit since the outbreak of Syria’s civil war in 2011. Mr. Mikati’s trip follows the recent toppling of longtime Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad by Islamist rebels and the election of Lebanon’s new president, Army Chief Joseph Aoun, after a prolonged political deadlock.
The visit comes as both Lebanon and Syria seek to rebuild their relationship after years of conflict. Mr. Mikati is scheduled to meet with Syria’s new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, to discuss bilateral issues. The Lebanese Prime Minister’s visit is seen as a crucial step in normalizing ties between the two neighboring nations. The improved relationship follows Hezbollah’s weakening after a recent war with Israel. Syria’s influence in Lebanon, significant for three decades under the Assad regime, diminished following the withdrawal of Syrian troops in 2005.
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