Yemen–UN Meetings in Riyadh Aim to Consolidate De-escalation and Advance Prisoner File
Yemen Monitor – Newsroom:
Yemen’s diplomatic file witnessed notable activity this week, marked by a series of meetings between Foreign Minister Shaea al-Zendani and the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, coinciding with the envoy’s visit to the Saudi capital Riyadh and his consultations with several ambassadors and international diplomats.
During his meeting with the foreign minister, Grundberg reviewed the ongoing efforts of the United Nations to support de-escalation and revive the political process. Minister al-Zendani reaffirmed the Yemeni government’s full support for UN efforts and its readiness to cooperate with the international community to alleviate humanitarian suffering and strengthen security and stability.
The talks also covered the latest developments in negotiations over prisoner and detainee exchanges. Al-Zendani stressed the need for tangible progress on this sensitive humanitarian issue and emphasized full commitment to implementing any agreements leading to the release of all prisoners without exception.
As part of his visit to Riyadh, the UN envoy held a series of meetings that included the Saudi ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al Jaber, the UAE ambassador Mohammed Al-Zaabi, representatives of the UN Security Council permanent members, and several diplomats.
The discussions focused on the recent developments in Hadramowt and Al-Mahra, given the political and economic significance of Yemen’s eastern region. Grundberg urged all parties to exercise restraint and reduce tensions through dialogue, stressing the importance of maintaining space for Yemeni parties to engage in discussions that promote stability and serve the interests of the Yemeni people.
The UN envoy also reiterated his ongoing commitment to working with Yemeni, regional, and international stakeholders to enhance prospects for a comprehensive political settlement that ends the protracted conflict and opens the door to a new phase of security and development in Yemen.
