Djibouti’s president meets with the foreign minister, reaffirming the country’s support for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Djibouti President Welcomes Yemeni Foreign Minister

On Thursday, President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti received Dr. Afrah Al-Zuba, Yemen’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, during her official visit to the Republic of Djibouti. The meeting took place at the Presidential Palace.

Diplomatic Greetings and Well Wishes

During the meeting, Minister Al-Zuba conveyed greetings from President Rashad Mohammed Alimi, the head of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council. She expressed his wishes for President Guelleh’s health and success, as well as for the continued progress and prosperity of the Djiboutian people.

In return, President Guelleh sent his regards to President Alimi, wishing the Yemeni people peace, security, and stability.

Commitment to Yemen’s Unity and Sovereignty

President Guelleh reaffirmed Djibouti’s support for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He emphasized his country’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and fostering cooperation between the two nations across various sectors.

Strategic Coordination on Maritime Security

Minister Al-Zuba highlighted the importance of strengthening coordination between Yemen and Djibouti regarding security issues in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Given their strategic locations on either side of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, she noted that protecting these vital waterways requires enhanced collaboration and information sharing among neighboring countries. This cooperation aims to combat smuggling, piracy, and organized crime, thereby safeguarding regional security and ensuring safe international navigation and trade.

Updates on Yemen’s Situation

The Yemeni Foreign Minister briefed President Guelleh on the current situation in Yemen, particularly the threats posed by Houthi militias, including attacks on ports and maritime routes. She underscored the dangers that illegal supply networks and associated activities pose to Yemen’s security and stability, as well as to the broader region.

Minister Al-Zuba stressed that effectively and sustainably addressing these threats necessitates tackling their root causes, cutting off funding sources, and combating the illicit activities that fuel them. This approach will enhance regional security and protect international shipping lanes.

Appreciation for Djibouti’s Support

The Yemeni Foreign Minister expressed gratitude for Djibouti’s supportive stance towards Yemen, particularly its backing of Yemen’s unity and territorial integrity. She acknowledged the facilities and care provided to Yemenis residing in Djibouti.

Minister Al-Zuba reiterated the Yemeni government’s commitment to building on the historical and distinguished relations between the two countries. She emphasized the importance of advancing cooperation and coordination in various fields to serve the mutual interests of both nations and their peoples.

Attendees of the Meeting

The meeting included several notable attendees, such as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdiqadir Omar, Djibouti’s Ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Issa, Yemen’s Ambassador to Djibouti and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Abdullah Al-Saqtri, and the Director of Arab Affairs at the Djiboutian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed Doualiyeh.

This meeting marks a significant step in reinforcing the ties between Djibouti and Yemen, highlighting the ongoing commitment to regional stability and cooperation.

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