Foreign Office Minister welcomes UN Statement on Yemen
Minister for the Middle East Alistair Burt calls on all those with a stake in Yemen’s future to work together to make political, economic and security reform a reality.
“I welcome today’s Presidential Statement from the Security Council on the situation in Yemen. At a time of continuing political turbulence, it is vital we keep Yemen on the international community’s agenda. Yemen has made progress with the peaceful transfer of power to President Hadi in February’s elections, but the recent deterioration in political cooperation is a real cause for concern. I call on all those with a stake in Yemen’s future to work together to make political, economic and security reform a reality. In particular, the Government must begin the process of National Dialogue at the earliest opportunity.
“Security remains a significant problem in Yemen, with a worrying increase in terrorist attacks in recent months. Alongside serious economic decline, and an escalating humanitarian crisis, the challenge for Yemen, and the international community, is all too clear. Through Friends of Yemen, we are working closely with fellow co-chairs Saudi Arabia and Yemen, on how we can help Yemen address these challenges and support them through the transition process. We look forward to bringing together interested parties at the Friends of Yemen meeting in Riyadh on 23 May, to continue our active support for Yemen and ensure there is an action plan in place for the next phase of reform.”