Minister of Planning discusses UNDP’s support for development plans with international partners.

In a significant meeting held in Aden, Yemen’s temporary capital, on Thursday, Dr. Waed Ba’zeb, the Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, engaged in discussions with Zena Ali, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Yemen. The focus of their dialogue was on the various programs and projects currently being implemented by the UNDP and the direction of support for the country’s developmental plans.

The meeting, which was also attended by Dr. Nizar Basoheib, the Deputy Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, covered a range of critical topics related to the UNDP’s interventions across various sectors. Key among these were the Rural Resilience Project, institutional building programs, and initiatives aimed at developing the fisheries sector and managing water resources.

Dr. Ba’zeb praised the substantial efforts undertaken by the UNDP in supporting and bolstering the government’s plans and programs. He emphasized the significance of these efforts in achieving economic reforms and advancing towards sustainable development, which he described as a fundamental pillar for improving the country’s situation.

Furthermore, Minister Ba’zeb highlighted the challenges facing humanitarian work in Yemen due to the disruptive actions and practices of the Houthi militia, including recent campaigns of kidnappings and arrests targeting workers in international and UN organizations. He stressed the importance of taking effective steps to protect these workers and suggested relocating the main centers and headquarters of these organizations to Aden. He warned of the repercussions of these practices on humanitarian efforts, especially given the worsening humanitarian situation in the country.

On her part, the UN official clarified that the UNDP is currently re-prioritizing its projects and future interventions. She commended the high level of coordination and the significant facilitation provided by the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation, which greatly contributes to the successful implementation of projects in Yemen.

In a related discussion, Minister Ba’zeb met with Dr. Al-Khader Nasser Lasour, the President of Aden University, to talk about the projects being carried out at the university, the pressing academic and educational needs, and how to leverage support from international cooperation programs and funding from donor organizations.

This meeting underscores the ongoing collaboration between the Yemeni government and international bodies like the UNDP to foster development and address the urgent needs of the Yemeni people amidst challenging circumstances.

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