MANAMA/BEIRUT, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa announced on Wednesday the opening of a permanent Bahraini diplomatic mission in Beirut, marking a renewal of the kingdom's full diplomatic relations with Lebanon.

The announcement was made during his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who is on an official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, according to the Bahrain News Agency (BNA).

Both leaders reviewed bilateral ties and discussed ways to enhance cooperation across economic, security, and political fields. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing Bahraini-Lebanese relations for the mutual benefit and prosperity of their nations.

Meanwhile, according to a joint statement released on Wednesday by Lebanon's presidency, the two sides agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in economic development, security coordination, and regional stability, pledging joint efforts to combat terrorism, boost trade, and support peaceful resolutions to ongoing regional conflicts.

Security issues were central to the discussions, with both countries condemning destabilizing activities and reaffirming their determination to combat terrorism and prevent its financing. Bahrain reiterated its steadfast support for Lebanon's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political reforms under Aoun's leadership.

Bahrain closed its embassy in Beirut in October 2021 following controversial remarks made by former Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi regarding the war in Yemen, which were considered offensive by the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. ■