UN Envoy Sees Realistic Opportunity for Comprehensive Peace in Yemen After Riyadh Visit
Yemen Monitor/Newsroom:
UN Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, concluded a working visit to the Saudi capital, Riyadh, where he held intensive discussions with officials on the Yemeni crisis, expressing optimism about the possibility of achieving a comprehensive negotiated settlement.
Grundberg stated in a statement issued on Sunday that the visit included a series of meetings with Yemeni Foreign Minister Shayea Al-Zindani, Saudi Ambassador to Yemen Mohammed Al-Jaber, UAE Ambassador Mohammed Al-Zaabi, and other diplomatic representatives, without disclosing the duration of his stay in the Kingdom.
The UN envoy praised the agreement announced on May 6 to cease hostilities between the United States and the Houthis, describing it as a “strategic opportunity” that not only aims to de-escalate tensions in the Red Sea but also extends to reinforcing previous commitments for a full ceasefire, urgent economic measures, and the launch of an effective political process.
Grundberg affirmed that “the Yemeni people have endured the scourges of conflict for over a decade,” noting that there is a “realistic path that warring parties can take to achieve comprehensive negotiated peace, supported by regional and international efforts.”
He also warned of the deteriorating economic conditions that “burden Yemenis daily,” considering that “restoring economic stability is a fundamental prerequisite for any sustainable political progress.”
It is worth noting that Grundberg had revealed a roadmap to end the conflict in December 2023, which included a commitment from the Yemeni government and the Houthis to a ceasefire and improved living conditions. However, implementation has remained stalled amidst mutual accusations between the parties of obstructing the process.
