The Minister of Oil and Minerals discusses challenges facing the oil and gas sector with the UN envoy.
Minister of Oil and Minerals Discusses Challenges in Yemen’s Oil and Gas Sector
In a significant meeting held today in the temporary capital of Aden, Dr. Mohammed Bamqae, Yemen’s Minister of Oil and Minerals, engaged with Hans Grundberg, the United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen. The discussion focused on the current state of the oil and gas sector and the challenges facing Yemen’s economy.
Importance of the Meeting
At the beginning of the meeting, Minister Bamqae welcomed the UN envoy, emphasizing the importance of this visit. He highlighted the need for a close examination of the oil and minerals sector, which serves as a cornerstone of Yemen’s economy. Bamqae also noted the substantial support from the Presidential Leadership Council and the government, aimed at enabling the ministry to fulfill its critical responsibilities amid the country’s extraordinary circumstances.
Economic and Humanitarian Impact of Oil Export Suspension
Minister Bamqae outlined the severe economic and humanitarian consequences resulting from the suspension of oil exports since October 2022. This halt followed attacks by Houthi militias on export facilities and ports, particularly the Al-Dhaba oil port. Additionally, the ongoing cessation of liquefied natural gas exports has led to a sharp decline in public revenues. This decline has negatively impacted the government’s ability to meet its obligations to citizens, including salary payments and funding for essential services.
Government Efforts to Stabilize Fuel Supply
The minister also discussed the government’s efforts, under the guidance of the Presidential Leadership Council, to ensure stable supplies of petroleum products and household gas in liberated provinces. He pointed out the price imbalances and disruptions caused by the militias in areas under their control, which threaten the security and stability of Yemen and the broader region.
Call for Enhanced Coordination
Minister Bamqae reiterated the importance of strengthening coordination with the UN envoy’s office to find practical solutions that support the stability of the sector. He emphasized that resuming exports would help restore the state’s economic role and alleviate humanitarian suffering.
UN Envoy’s Support for Yemen’s Economic Recovery
In response, the UN envoy expressed appreciation for the ministry’s efforts. He affirmed that the oil and gas sector represents a lifeline for Yemen’s economy. Grundberg stressed the importance of continued collaboration and joint coordination to support pathways for recovery and economic stability in Yemen.
This meeting marks a crucial step in addressing the pressing challenges facing Yemen’s oil and gas sector, highlighting the need for international cooperation to foster economic recovery and humanitarian relief.
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