The Chairman of the Leadership Council meets with the Turkish chargé d’affaires, warning against ceasefire agreements that fail to address Iranian regime behavior.

President Alimi Welcomes Turkish Charge d’Affaires in Yemen

On Monday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, met with the Turkish Charge d’Affaires in Yemen, Mr. Emrullah Ashlar. This meeting highlighted the ongoing diplomatic relations between Yemen and Turkey.

Greetings from President Erdogan

During the meeting, Mr. Ashlar conveyed warm greetings from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He expressed wishes for President Alimi’s good health and for peace, security, and stability for the Yemeni government and its people.

In response, President Alimi sent his regards to President Erdogan and extended best wishes for his health and happiness. He also wished for further progress and prosperity for the Turkish people.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

The discussion focused on the strong ties between Yemen and Turkey, exploring ways to enhance and develop these relationships. Both leaders addressed local and regional developments, as well as issues of mutual interest.

President Alimi emphasized the historical connections between Yemen and Turkey, noting the deep cultural and humanitarian bonds that unite the two nations. He praised Turkey’s humanitarian, relief, and developmental support, which has alleviated the suffering of the Yemeni people.

Support for Yemeni Refugees

President Alimi expressed his gratitude for Turkey’s hospitality towards thousands of Yemenis who fled their country due to the Houthi militia’s coup, backed by the Iranian regime. He acknowledged Turkey’s provision of opportunities for residence, education, healthcare, and employment. Additionally, he highlighted the ongoing support from Turkish universities for Yemeni students, preparing them to contribute to Yemen’s future.

Resuming Turkish Support Programs

The President welcomed the resumption of Turkish support and cooperation programs. He stressed the importance of building on this initiative to address the priorities of the Yemeni government, particularly in higher education, healthcare, infrastructure, and energy.

Economic Reforms and Trade Relations

President Alimi expressed his hope for the convening of the joint ministerial committee and emphasized the need for continued growth in trade between the two countries, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict instigated by the Houthi militia.

He also discussed the government’s efforts in institutional and economic reforms aimed at improving public revenues and essential services. He highlighted the importance of unified security and military decisions to establish a successful model in liberated provinces, with sincere support from Saudi Arabia.

Regional Developments and Security Concerns

In addressing regional developments, President Alimi warned that any ceasefire agreements failing to address Iran’s use of armed militias as cross-border tools would result in fragile solutions. He asserted that Yemenis view their issues with Iran not solely through the lens of the nuclear file but also as a threat from Iran’s expansionist agenda, which has armed and supported rebellious proxies that undermine national sovereignty and threaten regional security.

A Call for Genuine Peace

President Alimi concluded that true peace begins with respecting state sovereignty and principles of good neighborliness. He called for an end to militia support, the drying up of their funding and arms sources, and ensuring that the state alone holds the power to decide on peace and war.

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

This meeting underscores the importance of diplomatic engagement and the commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations between Yemen and Turkey amidst ongoing regional challenges.

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