Brussels, 10/02/2015 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 9 February, the foreign ministers of the EU member states underscored that they recognised “no legitimacy” for the unilateral constitutional declaration published by the Ansar Allah militia in Yemen on 6 February. “Only a broad political consensus amongst the main political groups, setting a clear path towards a constitutional referendum and elections, can provide a sustainable solution to the current crisis”, the ministers stated. They therefore called on all parties to return to genuine dialogue and inclusive negotiations, “in particular those conducted by the United Nations”. The ministers also welcomed the announcement made on 9 February on the resumption of inclusive negotiations under the auspices of the UN.
The EU foreign ministers called on “all actors to work constructively towards the swift finalisation of a new constitution which meets the legitimate aspirations of the Yemeni people, reflects the outcomes of national dialogue conference, and preserves the unity and territorial integrity of Yemen”.
In the Council's view, there is an “urgency for a stable and legitimate political framework” to enact “much needed economic reforms, including by taking decisive actions to improve fiscal sustainability and fighting corruption in the public administration”.
EU calls again for rejection of violence. Once again, the ministers called for the rejection of violence, stating that the development of the situation over the last two weeks had jeopardised the hopes created by the transition process in Yemen. “The EU calls on all political forces, particularly the Houthis [rebel Shi'ites], to take clear responsibility for their actions, starting by unequivocally rejecting violence and coercion as political tools”, the EU foreign ministers stated. In their view, disrespect for state institutions as well as attacks on and restriction to movements of officials are “unacceptable”. The ministers also called for the immediate release of President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi, Prime Minister Khaled Bahah and members of the government from house arrest.
The EU condemned the terrorist attacks “in the strongest terms”, including those by Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) within Yemen. The Council reiterated its firm commitment and enduring determination to tackle terrorist violence in Yemen and the broader region. (Camille-Cerise Gessant)