The Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council states that lasting peace cannot be achieved without disarming militias.

President Alimi Meets EU Mission Chief to Discuss Cooperation

On Wednesday, President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, welcomed Patrick Simonnet, the Chief of the European Union Mission. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in supporting government reforms, increasing development funding, humanitarian interventions, and institutional building.

EU Support in Yemen

During the meeting, President Alimi received an update from the EU Ambassador regarding various programs in several liberated provinces. He expressed appreciation for the EU mission’s significant role in supporting Yemen politically, economically, and socially.

Recent Developments in Aden and Taiz

The discussion also covered the outcomes of the EU Ambassador’s recent visits to Aden and Taiz. The proposed interventions stem from the EU’s assessment of local conditions, especially in the water, energy, and livelihood sectors.

Regional Security Concerns

President Alimi addressed recent regional developments, highlighting the threats posed by Iranian-backed agents to maritime security. He emphasized that any political solution must address the root causes of these threats, particularly the disarmament of rogue militias.

The Path to Sustainable Peace

The President stressed that achieving lasting peace requires more than a ceasefire. It necessitates the support and establishment of state institutions that maintain sovereignty over their territories.

Seizing International Opportunities

President Alimi expressed his desire to leverage the current international climate to reshape regional security. He called for increased political and economic pressure on Iranian-backed militias.

Urging EU Action Against Houthi Networks

He urged European Union countries to join international efforts to classify the Houthi group and its leaders, as well as to expand sanctions on arms smuggling and money laundering networks. He noted that delays in addressing these threats increase the costs of protecting global navigation.

Economic Reforms and Security

The President discussed the government’s ongoing economic and institutional reforms, supported by Saudi Arabia. He acknowledged the challenges in various service sectors and outlined the necessary European involvement.

Gratitude for Saudi Support

President Alimi expressed deep gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its unwavering support for Yemen and its people. He highlighted recent initiatives, including the oil derivatives grant, which aims to alleviate citizens’ suffering and improve essential services like electricity.

Energy Crisis Solutions

He outlined the government’s plans to tackle the energy crisis in partnership with Saudi Arabia. This includes adding new generation capacities and expanding renewable energy projects, alongside advancing the electricity interconnection project with Saudi Arabia.

Expanding EU Partnership

President Alimi expressed his eagerness to work with the EU to broaden the partnership. He emphasized the importance of reactivating the Friends of Yemen group as a platform for coordinating international support and resuming development funding.

Conclusion

The meeting concluded with the presence of Dr. Yahya Al-Shaibi, Director of the Presidential Office, underscoring the collaborative efforts between Yemen and the European Union to foster stability and development in the region.

For more updates, visit Yemen TV.

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