The Prime Minister welcomed a delegation and ambassadors from several EU countries in Aden.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak welcomed Gabriel Vinales, the head of the European Union mission, along with ambassadors from several EU member states at the presidential palace in Aden, Yemen’s temporary capital. The meeting focused on the current national situation and strategies to enhance collaborative efforts in supporting the government’s economic recovery plan, including the reallocation of European aid to priority sectors.

European Support for Yemen’s Government

The meeting included ambassadors from France, Catherine Colonna, and the Netherlands, Janneke Sips. They reviewed the European positions that support the Yemeni government in addressing the ongoing exceptional challenges, particularly in the economic sector. The discussions emphasized strengthening the national currency and alleviating humanitarian suffering exacerbated by Houthi militia attacks on oil export facilities and international shipping routes.

Additionally, the participants discussed the implementation of comprehensive reforms supported by the Presidential Leadership Council. They highlighted the importance of transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption measures, as well as bolstering the Yemeni Coast Guard to combat smuggling and secure maritime navigation.

Addressing the Houthi Designation

The meeting also touched on the recent U.S. decision to reclassify the Houthi militia as a foreign terrorist organization. The Prime Minister assured the delegation that the government is taking necessary measures to ensure that humanitarian efforts and citizens do not suffer as a result of this designation.

A Call for Increased Support

Prime Minister bin Mubarak expressed gratitude to the European delegation for their ongoing support for the Yemeni government and its people during this critical phase. He stressed the need to increase and redirect aid according to priorities in economic, service, humanitarian, and developmental sectors. He also pointed out the significance of building on the outcomes of the recent international meeting in New York, which delivered a strong political message of support for the Yemeni government and its reform agenda.

Challenges and Reforms Ahead

During the meeting, the Prime Minister outlined the challenges facing the government and presented his vision for addressing them. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing reforms, combating corruption, and achieving economic and service stability. He called on international partners, particularly in the European Union, to support the government’s economic recovery plan and its five main pathways to tackle existing challenges.

Updates from the European Mission

The Prime Minister received updates from the European mission regarding their meetings and visits to Hadhramaut. The delegation reiterated their commitment to supporting the government’s reforms and its economic recovery plan, as well as providing humanitarian services to the Yemeni population.

European Ambassadors’ Response

The European ambassadors expressed their understanding of the needs articulated by the Yemeni government. They expressed satisfaction with the success of the international meeting in New York, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to mobilize international support for the economic recovery plan.

Key Officials in Attendance

The meeting also included key government officials, such as the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Salem Al-Socotri; the Minister of Interior, Major General Ibrahim Haidan; the Minister of Industry and Trade, Mohammed Al-Ashwal; the Foreign Minister’s advisor, Ambassador Jamal Awad; and the Prime Minister’s advisor, Ambassador Mujib Osman.

This meeting marks a significant step in strengthening international partnerships to support Yemen’s recovery and stability.

 

To follow the news in Arabic