by Naharnet Newsdesk & The dailystar

After a four-day trip to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, President Michel Aoun and the accompanying delegation of ministers returned back to Lebanon on Thursday. On his return, Aoun stressed that ties with the “Gulf countries particularly with Saudi Arabia are back to normal,” adding that the misunderstanding is over now and a “new leaf of relations has been turned. The Lebanese will witness an increase in the influx of Gulf tourists to Lebanon.”

President Michel Aoun rejected Thursday the use of arms by any group locally, saying that some Lebanese factions' decision to participate in the conflict in Syria was not related to the state. Aoun's statements were made in an interview with the Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV to be broadcast on Thursday. The president expressed support to the "resistance" and not "terrorism," saying he was against "any arms used locally." Aoun didn't refer to Hezbollah in his remarks but the issue has been a matter of contention between Lebanese factions. Rival political leaders have accused Hezbollah of using its weapons internally against Lebanese citizens and as a tool of political pressure.

The President hailed the Lebanese community in the Gulf and said: “During our trip we have sensed a huge respect and appreciation for the Lebanese who have helped, and still do, with the developmental renaissance in Gulf countries.” On the topics discussed with Gulf officials, he said: “All subjects of common interest raised during the tour, have received a positive response and clear support. The agreements will be followed up in mutual visits.”