On Monday, October 7, 2023, Lieutenant General Aidarus Qassem Al-Zubaidi, a member of the Presidential Leadership Council of Yemen, met with French Ambassador to Yemen, Catherine Colonna. The two officials discussed the current state of bilateral relations and explored ways to strengthen cooperation to benefit both nations and their peoples.
Political and Humanitarian Updates
During the meeting, Al-Zubaidi and Colonna addressed the latest developments in Yemen’s political and humanitarian landscape. They particularly focused on the ongoing escalation by Houthi militias, which threaten international shipping routes in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandab, and the Gulf of Aden. Al-Zubaidi emphasized the urgency of these issues and the need for a coordinated response.
Call for Unified Strategy for Peace
Al-Zubaidi reiterated the importance of aligning positions between Yemen and its allied nations. He advocated for a unified approach and a comprehensive strategy to end the conflict and establish peace in Yemen and the surrounding region. He underscored that achieving lasting peace remains unattainable amid the ongoing aggression by Houthi militias, which he described as a group committed to violence and destruction rather than peace.
Humanitarian Efforts and Support
The discussion also highlighted various humanitarian projects and interventions implemented by the French government across liberated provinces in Yemen. Al-Zubaidi expressed his hope for increased French humanitarian support to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people, who continue to endure the impacts of war and the blockade imposed by Houthi forces.
French Support for Yemeni Stability
In response, Ambassador Colonna reaffirmed her government’s support for the Presidential Leadership Council and the efforts made by allied nations to protect international interests in maritime corridors. She also highlighted France’s commitment to supporting peace initiatives in Yemen.
This meeting marks a significant step in the ongoing dialogue between Yemen and France, focusing on enhancing cooperation and addressing pressing humanitarian needs in the region.
To follow the news in Arabic
-
Al-Thuqali discusses efforts to document the Socotri language and directs preparations for the heavy vehicles site at the port.
-
General Al-Zubaidi calls for local, regional, and international cooperation to secure international shipping routes.
-
Council member Al-Zubaidi discusses with the Greek ambassador the impact of ongoing Houthi escalation on international shipping.
-
A meeting was held in Lahij between the executive and judicial authorities to discuss strengthening coordination mechanisms.
-
One hundred young men and women benefit from economic empowerment tools in Dar Saad district, Aden.
-
Council member Al-Zubaidi appreciates China’s support for Yemen.