Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat, on his country’s first high-level visit to Beirut after years of strained ties, said on Thursday he believed crisis-hit Lebanon’s new leaders can spearhead long-sought reforms.

This administration is committed to its Arab roots and recognizes the significant role Saudi Arabia can play in Syria's reconstruction efforts, as well as in balancing the increasing Turkish influence in the country.

The United Arab Emirates announced on Friday that it reopened its embassy in Lebanon, state media reported, years after it was shut down in solidarity with Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia's top diplomat landed in Beirut on Thursday to meet the country's new leadership in the first visit by a high-ranking official from the kingdom after more than a decade of strained ties.

Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan expressed confidence in Lebanon's new leaders' ability to carry out necessary reforms,

Embassy closed in October 2021 following diplomatic crisis over remarks by then-Lebanese information minister - Anadolu Ajansı

Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries have been concerned about Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies' rising influence in Lebanon.