Brussels, 13/10/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 10 October, the EU “unreservedly” condemned the attacks on peaceful demonstrators in Sana'a the previous day and the attacks on military personnel in the South of Yemen. “We reiterate the EU's firm commitment to support Yemen in its fight against terrorism”, said the spokesperson for High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton. Ashton's spokesperson recalled that security was an essential condition for success of the transition. At least 43 people were killed in a suicide bombing in the centre of Sana'a against Shi'ite rebel supporters, who have been controlling the capital of Yemen since 21 September. This is the most serious attack in Sana'a since May 2012. In the South-East of the country, 20 soldiers were killed in a suicide bombing by an al-Qaida suicide-bomber in a booby-trapped car. The previous day ten police officers were killed in a series of attacks.
“We (…) call on all parties to work towards the implementation of the recently signed peace and national partnership agreement and the national dialogue conference outcomes”, said Ashton's spokesperson, reiterating the EU's commitment to continue supporting Yemen in its transition. The attacks have come in a context of political tension. Ahmed Awad Mubarak, appointed to form a new government, has resigned after the rejection of his nomination by Shi'ite rebels. The formation of a new government was provided for by a ceasefire agreement obtained on 21 September under the aegis of the United Nations (see EUROPE 11161). (CG)