Lebanon's president, Joseph Aoun, visited Saudi Arabia to discuss regional affairs with the crown prince, resulting in both countries calling for Israeli troops to withdraw from south Lebanon and for only the Lebanese state to have weapons. This visit improves relations between the two countries, which have been strained due to Iran's influence in Lebanon. Aoun's visit is also seen as an opportunity to lift the ban on imports from Lebanon and allow Saudi citizens to travel there. The joint statement issued after the summit emphasized the need for state institutions in Lebanon to have the right to bear arms and for the Lebanese army to be supported.