Brussels, 27/01/2014 (Agence Europe) - On 25 January, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton “warmly” congratulated the people of Yemen on the conclusion of the national dialogue conference, launched in March 2013, and “the work and determination” of the delegates to the conference. “This process, which brought together representatives of different political parties and various strands of society, is a unique and historic achievement”, Ashton stated, adding that the dialogue has brought Yemen closer to democracy and to the aspirations of its people for a more secure and prosperous future.
In a press release, Ashton said that the national dialogue has been able to overcome serious challenges. And while a deteriorating security situation and several incidents, including killings, threatened the dialogue until the last day, “the commitment of the participants has been stronger than any attempt to derail the process”. On 21 January, attacks were made against the delegates in the dialogue, killing one of them.
The conclusion of the dialogue opens a new, “extremely challenging” phase that should lead to a new constitution and to fully transparent and credible elections, Ashton stated. “More than ever, the perseverance and collaborative spirit of all stakeholders and a climate of security and inclusiveness will be essential to the success of this transition”, she added, reiterating the EU's support.
On 25 January, Yemen's President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi announced that he will launch projects quickly for a new constitution and for transforming the country into a federal state. (CG/transl.fl)