President Alimi Meets EU Foreign Affairs Chief at Munich Security Conference
President Dr. Rashad Mohammed Alimi, head of the Presidential Leadership Council, engaged in discussions with Kaia Kalas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, during the Munich Security Conference.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation and partnership between Yemen and the European Union. Both leaders addressed the current national situation and the necessary European support to bolster the Yemeni government’s efforts in recovery, sustain essential services, and combat terrorism.
Acknowledging EU Support
President Alimi praised the European Union for being one of Yemen’s largest humanitarian and developmental donors. He emphasized that the relationship with EU countries has taken on a strategic dimension, intersecting with international maritime security, energy supply stability, trade, and counter-terrorism efforts. He also highlighted the importance of curbing Iranian influence through its armed proxies.
Addressing Security Threats
In this context, President Alimi commended the EU’s decision to classify the Iranian Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. He noted the role of Operation Spidies in mitigating the Houthi threat to international navigation and expressed hope for completely eliminating this threat.
National Developments and Reforms
The President discussed recent developments in Yemen, particularly the progress made with the steadfast support of Saudi Arabia. This includes unifying security and military leadership, forming a new government, and initiating a reform program focused on service regularity, financial discipline, and restoring local and international trust.
Countering Security Vacuum Claims
President Alimi asserted that these transformations counter claims of a security vacuum following the end of parallel arrangements. He stated that a true vacuum arises when multiple decision-making sources exist, undermining the state’s exclusive authority.
Enhancing Security Decision-Making
He affirmed that unifying security decisions enhances the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts, improves services, reduces extremism, and protects human rights, starting with the closure of secret prisons.
Call for EU Action
The President urged the European Union to transition from crisis management to actively participating in resolving the situation. He pointed out that Houthi militias have exploited the Red Sea as a pressure tactic, warning that any leniency could extend the threat to the Arabian Sea.
Attendees of the Meeting
The meeting included Dr. Yahya Alshaibi, Director of the Presidential Office, Loay Al-Iryani, Yemen’s Ambassador to Berlin, and Economic Advisor Abdulaziz Al-Makhlafi.
For more information, visit Yemen TV.
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