LOC17:28
14:28 GMT
RIYADH, Feb 19 (KUNA) -- Saudi Arabia has suspended its aid package for Lebanon's army and internal security service, saying Lebanese positions do not match fraternal relations between both countries.
A Saudi source was quoted by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) as saying that the kingdom used to provide aid to Lebanon just to help it maintain security, stability and sovereignty.
However, Lebanon showed hostile positions at Arab, regional and international events amid the so-called Hezbollah's control over the State's will, the source said, reminding that Lebanon failed to condemn recent attacks on the Saudi embassy in Tehran and Iranian consulate in Mashhad, during meetings of the Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
"Such positions are regrettable and unprovoked, do not match fraternal relations between both countries, and ignore their interests and the kingdom's historic supportive stances for Lebanon during economic and political crises," the source noted.
"Due to such facts, the kingdom has totally reviewed its relations with Lebanon in a way that suits such positions and that protects the kingdom's interests," the source added.
The source noted that the kingdom has taken several decisions, suspending a USD 3 billion aid package for the Lebanese army to buy French weapons, and canceling the remainder of USD 1 billion in aid it had earmarked for Lebanon's internal security service. (end)
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