The Chairman of the Leadership Council stated there can be no peace with a group claiming a divine right to rule and challenging state authority.

President Alimi Welcomes Chinese Envoy to Discuss Bilateral Relations

On Thursday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, welcomed the Chinese government’s envoy for Middle Eastern affairs, Chai Jun, along with his accompanying delegation. The meeting focused on the distinguished historical relations between Yemen and China, exploring ways to enhance and develop these ties, as well as discussing regional issues of mutual interest.

Strengthening Yemen-China Relations

During the meeting, President Alimi expressed Yemen’s pride in its strong relationship with the People’s Republic of China. He emphasized the mutual commitment to strengthening this partnership across various sectors. Alimi highlighted Yemen’s strategic location, its ports, and its connections to the Arab and African regions, asserting that Yemen could play a vital role in the Belt and Road Initiative and serve as a close partner in securing global trade.

China’s Support for Yemen

The President appreciated China’s steadfast support for Yemen and its people, affirming the need for a greater Chinese role in backing the Yemeni state, its institutions, and its armed and security forces. This support is crucial for restoring state institutions, protecting civilians, and securing maritime routes.

Commitment to One China Policy

President Alimi reiterated Yemen’s unwavering support for the One China principle and its sovereignty, rejecting any interference in China’s internal affairs. He stressed that respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations should form a consistent foundation for addressing crises, particularly in the context of Yemen.

Peace Efforts and Challenges

The President expressed gratitude for China’s efforts to support peace initiatives in Yemen and the region. He noted that the Yemeni government has positively engaged with all de-escalation efforts and made genuine concessions for the benefit of the Yemeni people. However, he criticized the Houthi militias, backed by Iran, for exploiting these efforts to enhance their military capabilities and escalate their hostile actions instead of seizing the opportunity to alleviate prolonged suffering.

Core Issues with Houthi Militias

President Alimi clarified that the core issue with the Houthi militias does not stem from a power struggle but from their insistence on retaining weapons outside state control. He condemned their claims of a divine right to rule and their positioning above the law and popular will, which poses a fundamental threat to the Yemeni state and its national security.

Commitment to Peaceful Governance

The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a peaceful approach that leads to a national state governed by the constitution, with institutions that monopolize power and arms, ensuring equal citizenship and political pluralism, free from the threats posed by cross-border militias.

Security Concerns and Iranian Involvement

President Alimi addressed recent revelations from security agencies regarding the involvement of dozens of Iranian, Lebanese, and Iraqi experts alongside the Houthi militias. He indicated that Iran uses this group to maintain Yemen as a leverage point against regional and global powers.

Warning Against National Disintegration

The President warned that leniency towards undermining national states through armed force opens the door to the disintegration of countries and the emergence of competing entities. This situation contradicts the principles that unite Yemen and China in respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Houthi Escalation and Humanitarian Crisis

The President also discussed the recent Houthi escalation and the suffocating blockade on the residents of Taiz province, describing it as a war crime. He stated that this situation represents a critical test for the international community’s credibility in protecting civilians and ensuring international peace and security.

China’s Continued Support

In response, Envoy Chai Jun reaffirmed China’s commitment to standing by Yemen, supporting the Presidential Leadership Council and the government in their efforts to restore security, stability, and peace. He reiterated China’s dedication to Yemen’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as its ongoing efforts to support de-escalation and prevent further deterioration of the situation in Yemen and the region.

Humanitarian Assistance and Development Projects

Chai Jun highlighted China’s intention to continue providing humanitarian aid to the Yemeni people and to do everything possible to support development projects that alleviate human suffering and enhance cooperation between the two friendly nations.

Attendees of the Meeting

The meeting included the Director of the Presidential Office, Dr. Yahya Al-Shaibi, and the Chargé d’Affaires of the People’s Republic of China, Shao Cheng.

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