Brussels, 25/01/2010 (Agence Europe) - With the violence continuing in the north of the country between Zaydi rebels and the Yemeni army which is backed by Saudi troops, “the EU reaffirms its commitment to a unified, stable, democratic and prosperous Yemen”. In conclusions adopted on Monday 25 January, the Council of the EU repeats “its support to the government of Yemen in confronting the challenges it faces”. The member states say they are committed “to joining with international partners, including Yemen's neighbours, in assisting the government through a comprehensive approach encompassing security, counter-terrorism, political dialogue, humanitarian and economic assistance”. The aim is to “ensure coherence and effectiveness of domestic and international efforts,” the EU states, two days before the international conference in London on 27 January. “The EU calls on the government of Yemen to continue with its programme of domestic political and economic reforms” and welcomes the announcement by President Saleh that he is to launch a comprehensive national dialogue. The London conference will provide the opportunity for discussion with the Yemeni government of what assistance can be brought, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton told press after the Council meeting. The Yemeni government had to move forward in terms of reform and dialogue, she went on. (A.B./transl.rt)