Yemen: Statement by the High Representative Josep Borrell on the ceasefire announcement

09.04.2020
Brussels

The European Union welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire made on Wednesday by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the “Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen”. It is now imperative that the domestic parties to the conflict, namely the Government of Yemen and the movement Ansar Allah, immediately cease all hostilities and begin talks in good faith under UN auspices.

A crisis meeting between the parties, as proposed by the UN Special Envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths, represents a unique opportunity to discuss ways to end the conflict. The EU encourages the parties to engage genuinely and constructively in the process and to refrain from any unilateral actions that may undermine its objective.

Commercial goods, in particular medicines, as well as humanitarian aid, must continue to flow unhindered and reach those in need at this critical period. The coronavirus pandemic knows no borders, and does not distinguish between friend and foe. Its impact on a country ravaged by six years of war could be catastrophic.

The EU fully supports the UN Special Envoy and his team, and will strengthen its engagement with all Yemenis including by reaching out to the parties and other relevant stakeholders.

Peter Stano
Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
+32 (0)460 75 45 53