Yemen’s Presidential Council leader announces a new phase in regaining initiative and state-building efforts.
President Alimi Meets UK Ambassador to Discuss Bilateral Relations
On Tuesday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, welcomed the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Yemen, Abda Sharif. The two discussed the strengthening of bilateral relations, local and regional developments, and collaborative efforts to enhance security and stability in the region.
Strengthening Historical Ties
President Alimi praised the longstanding relationship between Yemen and the UK. He acknowledged the UK’s support for constitutional legitimacy and regional security, particularly concerning maritime routes. The President expressed his desire to elevate the partnership, especially in areas such as state institution support, economic recovery, and sustainable peacebuilding.
A New Phase for Yemen
The President emphasized that Yemen has entered a new phase of initiative recovery. This shift results from significant changes in the balance of power over recent years. He highlighted efforts to rebuild civil, military, and security institutions, which have improved their capacity to fulfill national responsibilities. This progress has fostered a clearer vision, greater institutional cohesion, and a unified political will to restore state institutions.
Unity Among State Institutions
President Alimi noted the unprecedented harmony among state institutions regarding national obligations. This unity reflects a shared vision and goal as Yemen prepares for the next phase of its development.
Addressing Ground Realities
The President stressed the importance of acknowledging the current realities on the ground. He clarified that the Yemeni government has never imposed a blockade on citizens in areas controlled by Houthi militias. Instead, the government has kept ports open and ensured the flow of food, medicine, and essential goods. He attributed the ongoing humanitarian crisis to the continued hijacking of state institutions and the misuse of resources for the benefit of the coup project. He stated that alleviating humanitarian suffering begins with addressing its root causes and restoring state sovereignty over all territories.
Seeking International Support
President Alimi reiterated that Yemen does not seek its partners and friends to fight its battles. Instead, he called for a consistent international stance that supports the Yemeni state and its legitimate institutions while rejecting the Iranian-backed militias as tools for extortion and illegal gains.
Regional and International Stability
The President pointed out that Yemen’s stability serves both regional and international interests. He emphasized that protecting the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab, along with ensuring freedom of navigation, requires a strong state on Yemeni soil. Supporting the Yemeni state today represents a direct investment in global trade security, regional stability, and the protection of international law.
UK’s Role in Supporting Yemen
President Alimi commended the UK’s pivotal role as a penholder on the Yemeni issue at the UN Security Council. He recognized the UK’s efforts in supporting international legitimacy and rallying support for a political path based on agreed-upon references, which aim to enhance Yemen’s security and stability.
Welcoming Maritime Coalition
The President welcomed the maritime coalition aimed at protecting international navigation. He praised Saudi Arabia’s leadership in enhancing security in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab. He reiterated that supporting the Yemeni state and its legitimate institutions remains essential for achieving sustainable security for maritime routes and global trade.
UK Ambassador Reaffirms Support
In response, Ambassador Sharif reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting the Presidential Leadership Council and the Yemeni government. She emphasized the importance of restoring security and stability, pursuing a comprehensive peace process, and enhancing partnerships across various sectors.
The Ambassador also welcomed the appointment of a new Foreign Minister, viewing it as a positive step toward strengthening governmental effectiveness at both regional and international levels. She expressed the UK’s eagerness to continue close collaboration with the Yemeni government to support peace, stability, and economic recovery efforts.
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with the presence of Dr. Yahya Al-Shaibi, Director of the Presidential Office, underscoring the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation between Yemen and the UK.
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