Grundberg Concludes Riyadh Talks, Urges Leveraging New Government Formation for Political Progress
Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, concluded a visit to the Saudi capital, Riyadh, spanning February 10–12, during which he held a series of meetings with Yemeni, regional, and international officials.
Grundberg met with the newly appointed Prime Minister, Shayea al-Zindani, along with members of the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC). His meetings also included the Saudi Ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al Jaber, and representatives of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council (P5).
The UN Envoy discussed the latest political, economic, and security developments in Yemen with the Prime Minister, emphasizing the importance of building upon the formation of the new government. He stressed the need to translate this development into practical steps that contribute to tangible gains for the Yemeni people.
In his expanded meetings, Grundberg highlighted the necessity of strengthening regional coordination and maintaining international engagement to help de-escalate tensions and create conditions conducive to a negotiated political settlement.
The Envoy affirmed his ongoing communication with Yemeni, regional, and international parties to support efforts aimed at lowering tensions and enhancing the chances of launching a comprehensive, Yemeni-led political process. He noted that he will provide a briefing to the Security Council later today via video conference during the monthly session dedicated to Yemen.
The new Yemeni government was sworn in on Monday, February 9, 2026, before the Head of the PLC, Rashad Muhammad Al-Alimi, at the Yemeni Embassy in Riyadh. The government formation consists of 34 ministers, including three women.
