The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, welcomed on Thursday evening the announcement by UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg of an agreement between the parties on a further 2-month extension of the truce in Yemen.
“Since 2 April, the truce has provided tangible benefits for the Yemeni people”, Mr Borrell said, pointing to the resumption of commercial flights after 6 years between Sana'a, Amman and Cairo, and the arrival of 18 fuel ships at ports in Hodeida.
A first truce had been decided on the occasion of Ramadan (see EUROPE 12925/27).
The High Representative strongly encouraged the parties, in particular the Houthis, to build on this positive momentum and to continue their constructive engagement with the UN by agreeing early on the reopening of roads, including around Taiz.
“There is a real chance for a lasting peace in Yemen. After more than 7 years of devastating conflict, it is time - finally and for good - to end the suffering of the Yemeni people”, Mr Borrell pleaded. He reiterated that the EU would continue to work with all parties in Yemen and, by fully supporting Mr Grundberg, towards a political settlement of the conflict. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)