It should be said that the process of normalizing Lebanese-Syrian relations began only after the change that occurred in Syria, and it certainly faces many challenges. In the past, these relations, which gradually developed over time since the Syrian invasion into Lebanon in 1976, were characterized by a shared destiny and path, reflecting varying degrees of Syrian dominance over decision-making in Lebanon across different spheres of political life.
Geography, history, and sociology have all contributed to shaping these relationships in a unique way. However, it is also worth noting the susceptibility of the Lebanese to various forms of alliances with foreign powers, serving goals and interests of the various actors involved. This has undoubtedly been facilitated by the weakness of the Lebanese national authority and the social-political divisions that have generally increased the appeal of foreign intervention.
It is important to remember that the shifting alliances in the region, and the conflicts and understandings they have generated, remain circumstantial in nature and intensity. These alliances have also contributed to strengthening Syria's role in Lebanon at various stages, across the Arab, regional, and international levels, and within the diplomacy of the Arab-Israeli conflict. Lebanon has a strategic interest in good relations with Syria, as it is its gateway to the Arab world. Similarly, Syria has a strategic interest in good and stable relations with Lebanon due to Lebanon's geopolitical position and its flexible power in the fields of science, culture, diversity, and openness.
The signing of the agreement to found the Lebanese-Syrian Higher Committee during the Syrian Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, visit to Lebanon, and his meetings with representatives of various Lebanese political factions, carries several messages regarding Damascus's intentions in Lebanon. The changes underway in Syria, which face numerous internal and external challenges, and the process of restoring the state to its normal role in Lebanon, which also faces many internal disputes, all foresee the possibility of forging new and different relationships between the two nations, based on strengthening the rule of law and on gradual, multifaceted cooperation. They would serve national and societal stability in all its aspects in both countries, and contribute to regional stability, with Arab support for this path, which is not an easy one, but not impossible.