Strengthening Yemen-Italy Development Cooperation: Minister of Planning Engages with Italian Ambassador

Minister of Planning Discusses Development Cooperation with Italian Ambassador

Virtual Meeting Explores New Partnership Opportunities

Today, Dr. Afrah Al-Zuba, Yemen’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, engaged in a virtual meeting with Italian Ambassador Carlo Baldocchi. The primary objective of the discussion was to revitalize development cooperation between Yemen and Italy, aiming to explore new avenues for partnership.

Future Collaboration Areas Identified

During the meeting, both officials examined potential future collaborations in several critical sectors. These include technical support, institutional capacity building, cultural heritage preservation, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. They also deliberated on how these factors could influence productive sectors within Yemen. Moreover, opportunities for multilateral cooperation through European Union institutions were highlighted as vital for enhancing development efforts.

Government Priorities and Historical Ties

Dr. Al-Zuba articulated the Yemeni government’s priorities under the leadership of Prime Minister Dr. Sha’if Mohsen Al-Zandani, emphasizing a strong focus on economic recovery, improving essential services, and advancing institutional reform. The Minister outlined significant steps taken by the government to develop institutions and enhance coordination with international partners.

Reiterating the deep historical ties between Yemen and Italy, which have endured for nearly a century, Dr. Al-Zuba acknowledged Italy’s crucial support in various sectors, including health, education, infrastructure, cultural heritage, environment, and maritime security. She expressed her hope for the revival of the partnership to its former prominence.

In response, Ambassador Baldocchi expressed his appreciation for the Yemeni government’s ongoing efforts. He noted that Italy was the first country to establish friendly relations with Yemen a century ago and conveyed Italy’s readiness to initiate coordination with development agencies to explore new forms of cooperation that align with current priorities.

This meeting marks a significant step toward strengthening the bilateral relationship between Yemen and Italy, with both sides eager to enhance collaboration for mutual benefit.