Luxembourg, 21/10/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 21 October, the foreign affairs ministers underlined their concern about the fragile situation in Yemen, the growing number of kidnappings, and the increase in attacks. They firmly condemned the attack in Sanaa on 6 October in which a member of the German Embassy was killed (see EUROPE 10938).
In the conclusions it adopted, the Foreign Affairs Council stated that the EU calls on the authorities of Yemen to do everything possible to investigate this incident and earlier ones, and to improve security. The foreign affairs ministers state that security is an essential element in the success of the country's political transition and that the EU will continue to support the Yemeni government's efforts in this domain.
The ministers also welcome the progress made by the conference of national dialogue, urging the delegates to finish their work. The say that an agreement on the outstanding issues must be followed by a formal adoption and real implementation of the recommendations of the conference, and add that conclusion of the work will mark an essential step in the process of transition.
As expressed in its June conclusions (see EUROPE 10873), the Council recalls the importance of moving forward with determination in a process of transition which is ordered, inclusive and peaceful and which must end with the holding of a constitutional referendum followed by general elections. The Foreign Affairs Council adds that the EU reasserts its concern in the face of acts aiming to harm, hinder or derail the transition process.
The ministers also call on the Yemeni government to undertake urgent reforms (including on the fight against corruption in the public sector, and public administration management) and to conclude an agreement of assistance with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) quickly. (CG/transl.fl)