The foreign ministers of both nations discuss strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing consultation and coordination mechanisms.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations: Yemen and Djibouti Discuss Cooperation

On Thursday, Yemeni Foreign Minister Dr. Afrah Al-Zouba met with Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdiqadir Omar, to discuss the historical and brotherly relations between their countries. The two officials explored ways to enhance these ties and elevate cooperation to new levels that benefit both nations and their peoples.

Exploring Areas of Cooperation

During their meeting, Al-Zouba and Omar reviewed various aspects of bilateral cooperation. They focused on activating existing consultation and coordination mechanisms, particularly the Joint Ministerial Committee. The ministers also discussed the implementation of outcomes from the committee’s sixth session, which took place in Djibouti in 2022. They emphasized the importance of building on signed agreements and executive programs between Yemen and Djibouti.

Economic and Trade Development Initiatives

The ministers examined opportunities to develop economic, trade, and investment cooperation, especially in the areas of ports, transportation, maritime connectivity, and logistics services. They recognized the strategic geographical locations of both countries as vital for boosting trade and enhancing communication between Yemen and the Horn of Africa.

Addressing Regional Security Concerns

Al-Zouba and Omar exchanged views on the latest developments in Yemen and the surrounding region, including the situation in the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, and the Gulf of Aden. They underscored the importance of safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the smooth flow of international trade. The ministers also highlighted the role of neighboring countries in protecting these vital maritime routes.

Combating Transnational Crime

In this context, Minister Al-Zouba stressed the need for enhanced coordination and information exchange between relevant authorities in both countries. This collaboration aims to combat arms and drug trafficking, organized crime, and cross-border activities. The goal is to disrupt illicit supply lines that benefit the Houthi militia, which poses a threat to Yemen’s security, regional stability, and international navigation.

Commitment to Historical Ties

Al-Zouba expressed Yemen’s appreciation for Djibouti’s supportive stance. She reaffirmed the Yemeni government’s commitment to building on the historical foundation of relations between the two countries, transforming it into tangible cooperation and practical results.

Future Collaboration

Both ministers agreed to continue consultations and coordination efforts. They committed to activating frameworks for bilateral cooperation and implementing existing agreements to enhance mutual interests for both nations and their peoples.

Djibouti’s Support for Yemen

In response, Minister Omar reiterated Djibouti’s steadfast support for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. He expressed Djibouti’s hope for Yemen to regain its security and stability, fulfilling the aspirations of its people for peace, development, and prosperity.

This meeting marks a significant step in reinforcing the cooperative relationship between Yemen and Djibouti, paving the way for future collaboration that benefits both nations.

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