The Chairman of the Leadership Council expresses hope for a proactive European role in supporting recovery efforts and deterring militia actions.

President Alimi Welcomes Dutch Ambassador to Yemen

On Tuesday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, met with Janiet Sieben, the Dutch Ambassador to Yemen. This meeting focused on the strong bilateral relations between Yemen and the Netherlands, highlighting promising prospects across various sectors.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

During their discussion, President Alimi emphasized the importance of Dutch support in several key areas. These include economic reforms, institutional capacity building, modern water management projects, food security, agriculture, fisheries, and the development of ports and logistics services.

The President expressed his deep appreciation for the Dutch government’s ongoing support for Yemen. He acknowledged their active role within the European Union and their significant humanitarian and developmental contributions over the years, positioning the Netherlands as one of Yemen’s largest European partners.

Expanding Support for Key Initiatives

President Alimi conveyed the Yemeni government’s desire to increase Dutch assistance for vocational education and training programs. He highlighted the importance of empowering women and youth, creating job opportunities, and rehabilitating hospitals. Additionally, he called for encouraging private sector investment and European investments in liberated provinces.

The President also listened to Ambassador Sieben’s impressions from her recent visit to Marib, a province hosting millions of displaced individuals. He expressed confidence that this visit would enhance European donors’ attention to the province’s needs, particularly in infrastructure, essential services, and humanitarian relief.

Addressing Local Developments and Security Issues

In the meeting, President Alimi discussed the current local situation and the comprehensive reform program led by the council and government. He noted the achievements in empowering women in decision-making roles across executive, judicial, and diplomatic sectors.

The President also addressed recent security developments and serious human rights violations by Houthi militias. He condemned their ongoing detention and disappearance of numerous United Nations agency staff and international organization members. Furthermore, he criticized the militia’s military escalation, recruitment campaigns, and continued threats to international waterways and regional security.

Call for Stronger European Action

President Alimi urged European partners to build on their principled support for Yemen and transition to more decisive actions. He called for joining the sanctions regime against the Houthi militias and their supporters. He stressed the need to enhance efforts to halt financial and military flows that prolong the conflict. The President asserted that deterring the Iranian-backed Houthi project is crucial for ending humanitarian suffering and restoring stability in Yemen and the region.

Dr. Yahya Al-Shaibi, Director of the Presidential Office, attended the meeting.

Conclusion

This meeting underscores the ongoing commitment of both Yemen and the Netherlands to strengthen their partnership. As both nations work together, they aim to address pressing challenges and foster a brighter future for Yemen.

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