President Rashad Alimi Meets German Foreign Minister at Munich Security Conference
On Sunday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, met with Dr. Johan David Wadephul, the German Foreign Minister, during the Munich Security Conference. This meeting highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Yemen and Germany.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During their discussion, both leaders addressed the current local situation in Yemen and the necessary German and European interventions to support the Yemeni government. They focused on political, security, institutional, economic, and developmental assistance.
President Alimi expressed his deep appreciation for Germany’s steadfast support for Yemen and its active role within the European Union. He acknowledged Germany’s significant contributions to humanitarian response efforts in Yemen.
Support for Germany’s UN Security Council Membership
President Alimi reaffirmed Yemen’s support for Germany’s bid for a seat on the UN Security Council. He expressed a desire to expand partnerships, transitioning from emergency needs management to supporting Yemen’s efforts in restoring national institutions and alleviating the humanitarian crisis caused by the Iranian-backed Houthi militias.
Enhancing Security Governance and Institutional Reform
The President also emphasized the importance of strengthening their longstanding partnership in security governance and institutional reform. He called for a revival of German developmental support, including technical cooperation and assistance for public finance capabilities and the Central Bank in managing fiscal and monetary policies.
Positive Developments in Yemen
President Alimi briefed the German Foreign Minister on recent positive developments in Yemen. He highlighted the unification of political and military decisions, supported by Saudi Arabia, which has ended the duality that hindered state effectiveness. Additionally, he noted the formation of a more representative government, which now includes three women in ministerial positions after years of exclusion.
Addressing Security Concerns
The President countered misleading narratives regarding security vacuums following the cessation of parallel unilateral actions. He clarified that the recent changes signify a restoration of state institutions’ natural function in maintaining authority. He stressed that real vacuums occur when multiple armed groups operate outside state control.
Combating Terrorism and Extremism
President Alimi asserted that unifying security leadership and addressing human rights violations would enhance the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts. This approach would also limit the spaces that extremist groups exploit.
Urging German and European Support Against Houthi Threats
The President emphasized the critical role of Germany and Europe in mobilizing efforts to eliminate the Houthi threat. He called for increased pressure on the Iranian regime to dismantle its missile and drone systems. He warned that any leniency towards armed factions would perpetuate threats to maritime routes and energy supplies.
Attendees of the Meeting
The meeting included Dr. Yahya Alshaibi, Director of the Presidential Office, Economic Advisor Abdulaziz Al-Makhlafi, and Yemen’s Ambassador to Berlin, Louay Al-Iryani.
This meeting underscores the ongoing commitment of Yemen and Germany to strengthen their partnership and address pressing challenges in the region.
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