The Chairman of the Leadership Council meets with the Executive Director of UNICEF.

Meeting Highlights Key Areas of Collaboration

On Thursday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, met with Catherine Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in New York. The meeting focused on UNICEF’s humanitarian interventions, particularly in the health and education sectors.

Coordinating Humanitarian Aid

During the discussion, President Alimi emphasized the importance of coordinating and directing aid to those in need. He highlighted the necessity for effective measures to ensure that assistance reaches the most vulnerable populations.

Strengthening Child Protection Initiatives

The conversation also addressed UNICEF’s plans to enhance its interventions in child protection. This includes efforts to provide safe drinking water, improve school nutrition, and ensure quality education and skill development. The President underscored the critical nature of all forms of life-saving assistance.

Partnerships for Basic Services

President Alimi praised the existing partnership between the Yemeni government and UNICEF. He noted their collaborative efforts to improve basic services, combat malnutrition, vaccinate against deadly diseases, promote environmental sanitation, and provide psychosocial support.

Condemning Houthi Violations Against Children

The President raised concerns about the Houthi militia’s violations against children. He condemned their ongoing recruitment of minors and the establishment of extremist indoctrination centers. Furthermore, he criticized the militia for altering school curricula to promote ideas of violence and hatred.

Public Health Threats from Houthi Actions

President Alimi also pointed out the Houthi militia’s continued obstruction of vaccine distribution and their incitement against vaccinating children in areas under their control. This situation has led to the resurgence of diseases that Yemen had previously eradicated.

Key Attendees

The meeting included Dr. Shaaib Al-Zindani, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, who contributed to the discussions on enhancing cooperation between Yemen and UNICEF.

This meeting underscores the urgent need for international collaboration to protect children’s rights and promote their well-being in Yemen.

 

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