Brussels, 18/04/2016 (Agence Europe) - On Monday 18 April, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini called, on behalf of the EU, on the parties to the conflict in Yemen to take advantage of the ceasefire that has been in force since 10 April in order to agree on a permanent ceasefire and on the outline for a sustainable political solution “guaranteeing the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Yemen”. Mogherini had already launched this call, in her own name, on 29 March when the ceasefire was announced for 10 April (see EUROPE 11521).
In her press release, Mogherini stated that the EU urged all the parties to “engage without preconditions, in good faith and in a constructive manner” in the negotiations, and to implement practical confidence-building measures. She mentioned full respect of the current ceasefire and the guarantee of safe, rapid, unhindered access for humanitarian assistance in line with international law. She said that inclusive intra-Yemeni political negotiations are the only way to put an end to the current conflict and to “properly and effectively” address the fragmentation of the state and human suffering, and to tackle the growing threat of terrorist groups.
Mogherini also stated that the cessation of hostilities was “essential” for providing vital assistance to the millions of people in areas difficult to reach. Over 20 million Yemenis are reportedly in need of humanitarian assistance.
Underlining “the need for a concerted and coordinated approach of the international community and the government of Yemen to the country's reconstruction”, Mogherini said that the EU would continue to play its role in the humanitarian work, as well as the work for development, reconciliation and reforms.
A few minutes after the publication of Mogherini's press release, United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed announced the postponement of the peace negotiations, which were initially planned for 18 April, because the rebels had not sent a delegation for these negotiations. No new date for the negotiations has been announced. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)