The Foreign Minister meets with the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict.

Strengthening Cooperation on Child Rights

Dr. Shai’ al-Zandani, Yemen’s Foreign Minister and Minister of Expatriates, met today in New York with Virginia Gamba, the United Nations Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict. Their discussion focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation to promote children’s rights and protect them during armed conflicts.

Progress on Child Protection Initiatives

During the meeting, both parties reviewed the advancements made in the roadmap for child protection. They also discussed efforts to build the capacities of government institutions responsible for safeguarding children and preventing child recruitment. This dialogue followed up on the outcomes of the UN Under-Secretary-General’s visit to Yemen at the end of last year.

Yemen’s Commitment to Child Rights

Minister al-Zandani reaffirmed the Yemeni government’s commitment to protecting children’s rights, recognizing them as the hope for the future. He praised the role of the UN Special Representative and highlighted the collaborative efforts with the government to safeguard children in conflict zones. Additionally, he raised concerns about the dangers posed by Houthi militias, which continue to propagate a culture of violence and hatred among children and youth.

UN Representative Acknowledges Progress

In response, Gamba commended the Yemeni government’s cooperation and coordination efforts. She noted the significant progress made in raising awareness to prevent violations against children.

Meeting Attendees

The meeting also included Yemen’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Abdullah al-Saadi, and the International Organizations Officer at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ahmed al-Sharabi.

The discussion underscores a vital partnership aimed at protecting the rights of children in Yemen amid ongoing conflicts, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing these pressing issues.

 

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