YouSaid · the spoken record

Ould Cheikh Ahmed

lines on the record: 179
first: 2015-10-23
most recent: 2018-02-27
sittings or episodes: 13
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“On the basis of international and regional support, I will resume consultations with the Government of Yemen, Ansar Allah and the General People's Congress in order to take advantage of this new initiative to and build on the progress made in Kuwait. In order to accelerate progress along the path to renewed talks, the resumption of the cessation of hostilities will be critical. Further military violence will not ease the way to a negotiated settlement. As we resume consultations, my priority will be to gain a recommitment from all sides to the cessation of hostilities. That should start with the full deployment of the De-escalation and Coordination Committee in Dharan Al-Janub.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“Those actions breach the commitments provided by both Ansar Allah and the General People's Congress to engage constructively in the peace process, as requested by the Security Council, and creates a new potential impediment to make progress towards an agreement. Unilateral actions of that sort will only complicate Yemen's path to peace and delay the end of military violence. We cannot effectively negotiate new political arrangements while unilateral steps are being taken that are inconsistent with a future comprehensive agreement. I therefore urge both parties to refrain from taking any additional unilateral steps that could undermine attempts to reach a peaceful settlement.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“Implementation would be overseen by military and security committees made up of senior military professionals acceptable to both parties, who would assume responsibility for the security of the population, critical infrastructure and State institutions. The agreement would also provide for the immediate restoration of the functioning of State institutions, free from interference by revolutionary committees or other bodies created during the conflict. The effective resumption of talks will be possible only if all parties maintain their commitment to a negotiated settlement and refrain from unilateral actions. I am extremely concerned by the announcement by Ansar Allah and former President, Ali Abdullah Saleh, of the formation of a supreme political council with broad administrative, security, economic and legislative powers.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“That meeting was followed by a discussion with the Foreign Ministers of the member States of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), who emphasized their full support of the United Nations efforts in Yemen. In both encounters, there was strong support for a return to the cessation of hostilities, which began on 10 April. There was also consensus on the need for a full and comprehensive political solution involving clearly sequenced political and security measures and firmly grounded in the GCC initiative and its implementation mechanism, resolution 2216 (2015) and the National Dialogue Conference outcomes. That proposed agreement would define a path for the rapid formation of a Government of national unity to be formed immediately following the withdrawal and handover of heavy weapons in Sana'a and some other vital areas.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“During those Visits, I also held extensive discussions with the Foreign Ministers and senior officials of Yemen, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar, the Russian Federation, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States. The discussions reaffirmed the strong international and regional support for a settlement of the conflict in Yemen and a commitment to help overcome the desperate economic and humanitarian challenges facing the country. During my latest visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I briefed a joint meeting of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States that had been called specifically to discuss how to overcome obstacles in the peace process.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“The cessation of Yemenia flights to and from Sana'a has blocked access to Yemenis seeking urgent medical treatment abroad, thereby removing a much needed humanitarian lifeline. In that context, I welcome United States Secretary of State Kerry's announcement of an additional $189 million to the Yemen humanitarian response plan, which remains funded at only 28 per cent. Over the past two weeks, I have conducted intensive meetings in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. In Riyadh, I met with President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour and Prime Minister Ahmed Obaid Mubarek Bin-Dagher, who reaffirmed their willingness to continue consultations on the basis of the principles agreed upon in Kuwait.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“It will be necessary to find practical solutions that will allow Yemen to overcome the liquidity crisis and ensure continued payments of salaries without discrimination everywhere in the country. From a humanitarian perspective, the escalation in fighting has led to tragic and unnecessary civilian deaths, casualties and a worsening of humanitarian suffering. The number of internally displaced persons has risen to over 3 million. Food prices are on average at least 60 per cent above pre-crisis levels, while income levels have dropped dramatically. Despite the growing levels of need, it has become increasingly difficult for humanitarian agencies to access many areas. The health-care system and other basic social services are struggling to cope with an increased workload and fewer resources.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“During the talks, the architecture of a road map emerged, which we will expand upon in the coming weeks. Before departing Kuwait, I agreed with both parties to continue consultations separately and to reconvene direct talks at a later stage. Delaying progress towards an agreement is particularly dangerous considering the grave deterioration in the economic situation. Of particular concern are delays in the payment of salaries in many parts of the country. Without external support, the lack of revenue and the shortage of liquidity could make it impossible for salaries to be paid in the coming months. There are reports of civil servants unable to collect their wages in Aden and other parts of the south. The stoppage of salary payments risks driving many more Yemenis into destitution and vastly exacerbating the humanitarian situation.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“The Yemeni army's increasing ability to confront extremist groups, as evidenced by the recent detention of suspected militants from Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula and the carrying out of military operations in Zinjibar and Hadramout, is encouraging. However, the absence of the State in many parts of Yemen, in addition to the chaos created by war, will continue to facilitate the expansion of those terrorist groups, which represents a real threat to the region. The Kuwait talks concluded after more than three months of difficult negotiations. I would like to reiterate my gratitude to the Amir of Kuwait for hosting the talks and for his efforts to encourage the Yemeni parties to conclude an agreement. The talks in Kuwait did not yield an agreement, but they were not without important results.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“That shows a worrying disrespect for the human rights of minority groups, and I echo the call from human rights groups for the immediate release of those still in detention. I also call on all the parties to fulfil their obligations and release all prisoners and detainees. I furthermore call upon all groups to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law to protect civilian lives and infrastructure. The military escalation will continue to provide opportunities for the spread of terrorist groups. Al-Qaida and the Islamic State continue to wreak havoc in significant parts of Yemen. For example, a suicide attack in Aden killed or injured dozens of Yemenis on 29 August. That attack was strongly condemned.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“The clashes have involved the use of artillery, airstrikes and ballistic missiles and have resulted in dozens of casualties, extensive destruction and renewed displacement. As has been the case throughout the conflict, numerous violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law have accompanied the fighting. On 17 August, the Secretary-General noted with concern the continued escalation of hostilities in Yemen and along the border area, including airstrikes and ground fighting. He also condemned in the strongest terms the attack on a rural hospital in Haj jah. According to human rights organizations, at least 60 members of the Baha'i community in Sana'a have been detained without charge, including six children. Further arrests were reportedly carried out on 16 August.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“I am grateful for this opportunity to brief the Security Council on the latest developments in the pursuit for peace in Yemen. The past month has been tragic for Yemen. The departure from Kuwait without an agreement has betrayed the expectations of millions of Yemenis, who had hoped that the talks would bring an end to the conflict and open the way for Yemen's return to a peaceful and orderly transition. The end of the Kuwait talks was followed by a severe breakdown in the cessation of hostilities and a dangerous escalation in military activities. Extensive military confrontations have been on-going in recent weeks in Sana'a, Taiz, Al-Jawf, Shabwa and March governorates, as well as along the border between Yemen and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
2016-08-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7765 (2016) · source
“The peace agreement we seek will restore security and stability for Yemen and will constitute a sign of hope for the Middle East, which is beset by a series of regional and international disputes. The parties to the negotiations now have the responsibility to find a political solution for the pending issues, which mainly concern the timeline and the sequencing of the different steps. I call on all parties to show political courage and make their national interests prevail by making the necessary concessions to reach a comprehensive agreement that safeguards the safety and security of Yemen and its citizens and ensures the well-being of the country.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“Over the past weeks, the delegations of the Government of Yemen, the General Popular Congress and Ansar Allah have demonstrated a true commitment to make peace, as well as political wisdom in the negotiations, which did not shy away from broaching sensitive and complicated issues. We have to recognize that any agreement that emerges from the Kuwait peace talks will do so in a very difficult context, and its implementation will pose a serious challenge. Yemenis should listen to their patriotic and political conscience and ensure implementation for the sake of the national interest. Within the next few days, I will provide the Yemeni parties with a written proposal for the upcoming stage.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“I also extend my sincere and utmost gratitude to the Amir of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, for his generous and steadfast support, and for the staunch efforts of the Government and the people of Kuwait in hosting the talks, as well as for all the facilities they continue to provide. We expect nothing less from that State, which has always sponsored initiatives in the service of peace and humankind. Yemenis are watching the developments in the peace talks in Kuwait with great hope and impatience. The people of Yemen have experienced the indignity and suffering of war for too long. I am confident that the unprecedented international support for the ongoing process will encourage the different parties to overcome obstacles and difficulties and reach a comprehensive political agreement.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“We count on the commitment of the parties and appeal to them to speed up their negotiations in order to reach a comprehensive settlement as soon as possible. The support of the Security Council has been a key factor in supporting progress in the talks. The parties have received the international community's clear and consistent message that a solution must be reached here in Kuwait. I appreciate the encouragement and support of Member States in reaching a negotiated and peaceful end to the conflict, and remain profoundly grateful to the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the League ofArab States.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“I emphasize the obligation of the parties to immediately and unconditionally release all children and to prioritize the release of vulnerable detainees, such as the elderly, sick and wounded, as well as those individuals identified in resolution 2216 (2015). On the other hand, the limited release of prisoners has been accompanied by the continued and systematic persecution of civilians, including journalists and civil society activists in Yemen. These acts of intimidation and harassment are clear violations of international human rights instruments. I call on all parties to halt these acts and to fulfil their obligations under these instruments. In short, the general atmosphere remains positive, although difficulties persist that need to be addressed. The Kuwait talks have progressed slowly yet constructively over the past two months.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“The humanitarian situation in Yemen is alarming and there are credible warnings from humanitarian organizations of a humanitarian catastrophe should the situation not be addressed forthwith. I welcome the release of prisoners that took place at the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, based on the recommendations of the committee for prisoners and detainees established within the framework of the Kuwai talks, which communicates data on the names of the prisoners released. In this regard, I welcome the release by the Government of Yemen of 54 children to their families, in coordination with UNICEF and the International Committee of the Red Cross. Furthermore, more than 400 detainees, including prisoners of war, have been released by Ansar Allah in recent weeks.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“To address this alarming situation, the Central Bank has continued to ensure the import of such basic commodities as rice, wheat and medicines. Such support will become more difficult in the weeks ahead , however, leading to a deterioration in the living standards of Yemenis, especially vulnerable groups. In this regard, my Office is coordinating with the Government of Yemen, the Central Bank and certain Member States to fmd quick solutions to the rapidly deteriorating economic situation. I recently met with the Minister of Finance and the Governor of the Central Bank, who are playing a very constructive role, and we discussed practical initiatives that can be rapidly implemented in order to help prevent the economic and humanitarian situation in the country from deteriorating further.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“I also acknowledge the ongoing work to counter terrorism in the south, which has led to a relative improvement of security. While progress in the Kuwait talks raises hope for the future, we must be mindful of the severe decline in the living conditions throughout the country. The failure to provide basic services over the past year has had a devastating impact. High temperatures and the lack of electricity in Aden, Hudaydah and elsewhere have exacerbated the health crisis in these areas and caused a number of preventable deaths. In this regard, I welcome the efforts of the United Arab Emirates to urgently provide fuel and emergency power to Aden. In recent months, the Yemeni economy has seen a dangerous deterioration. Since early 2016, Yemen's gross domestic product has shrunk by more than 30 per cent.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“My team has pursued several initiatives to support and incentivize the members of the de-escalation and coordination committee and the disengagement councils, with the support of the Kingdom ofSaudi Arabia, the European Union, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Turkey and the Netherlands. This has included training workshops to build the capacity of members of the councils in several governorates. This training will be repeated and broadened over the coming weeks to cover all remaining disengagement council members. I note that Prime Minister Mr. Ahmed Obaid Mubarek Bin-Dagher and members of his Cabinet retuned to Aden on 4 June in order to support the resumption of basic services and the reinforcement of security and stability. His efforts enjoy our support.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“The cessation of hostilities that was declared on 10 April 2015 has continued to provide relief from violence in many parts of Yemen. The de-escalation and coordination committee, which is based in Kuwait, and the local disengagement councils have continued to play an important role in de-escalating outbreak of violence and reducing violations of the cessation of hostilies. Unfortunately, the work of the committees has not been able to end serious violations, such as the shelling of a popular market in Ta'izz that resulted in 18 civilian deaths and dozens of injuries. In addition, there have been violations in Al-Jawf, Ta'izz and the areas bordering Saudi Arabia. I encourage the Security Council to call on all parties to fully cease all hostilities, respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, and protect civilians.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“The delegations have responded positively to the proposals, but have not yet reached agreement on the sequencing of the different steps provided for in the road map. When would the Government of national unity be created? What if particular provisions of the road map were implemented and others were not? These are important concerns that need to be addressed carefully and wisely in order to ensure a comprehensive solution with solid foundations. I look forward to the support of Member States of the region and the Security Council to encourage the parties to overcome their differences quickly, strengthen their common ground and demonstrate good faith. Yemen is on the path to an agreement and each day of delay needlessly extends the country's agony.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“According to the proposed road map, the national unity Government would also be responsible for preparing a political dialogue to define the remaining steps for a comprehensive political solution, including an electoral law, the mandates of the institutions that would oversee the transition period, and the completion of the draft constitution. It is essential that this political dialogue also find ways to ensure the more effective participation of women, young people and representatives from the south of the country in determining Yemen's future. I note that the road map also addresses the need to establish national and international mechanisms to monitor and support the implementation of an agreement between the parties.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“After intense talks with both parties, during which I listened carefully to their respective views and concerns, I presented a road map outlining a practical plan to put an end the conflict in Yemen and return the country to a peaceful political process. The road map provides for the implementation of the security arrangements specified in resolution 2216 (2015) and the establishment of a national unity Government that would ensure the delivery of basic services and address the recovery of the Yemeni economy.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“The parties have met directly in several sessions and agreed on solid foundations to build on. A number of prisoners and detainees, including children, have been released. The cessation of hostilities has allowed humanitarian aid to reach areas that were previously not accessible. Participants in the Kuwait peace talks have held a number of important sessions characterized by an extraordinary openness, and they have discussed the most sensitive issues, including military withdrawals, security arrangements, the hand-over of weapons, sensitive political issues, ways to improve the economic and humanitarian situation, and the release of prisoners and detainees.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“At the outset, allow me to congratulate you, Sir, on your country's accession to the presidency of the Security Council. I am sincerely grateful for the ongoing support provided by you and the members of the Security Council. (spoke in Arabic) I am grateful for this opportunity to brief the Security Council once again on progress in the Kuwait talks and on the prospects for Yemen's return to peace. Today, I am providing this briefing from Kuwait, two months after the launch of the peace talks, which have been characterized by a positive spirit at times, and also by a certain apprehension. Progress has been made in some cases, while further efforts are still needed in others. Over the previous period of the talks, the parties unanimously agreed on the need to reach a peaceful solution to put an end to the conflict in Yemen.”
2016-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7721 (2016) · source
“The Security Council must maintain its support for Yemen and the peace process in the coming weeks, which will help Yemen to reach a comprehensive ceasefire and return to a peaceful, inclusive political process. I wish to thank all members of the Council for the trust and unyielding support in ensuring that the rights of Yemenis are well respected. In conclusion, I would ask all Council members to dwell on this critical, historic moment. We have never been so close to peace. Will all parties rise to the occasion and genuinely engage in peace talks? Can they acknowledge their differences and agree to overcome obstacles? Can they drop their belligerent and destructive attitudes now that we are so close to peace? That is what we are asking for. We will have our answer in the coming days.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“With these components, we are building on what has been discussed and agreed in principle in resolution 2216 (2015). This framework provides a strong foundation for developing a new political consensus that will help Yemen to achieve the stability and security that its people deserve and its future requires. A positive outcome will require difficult compromises on the part of all sides, as well as determination to reach an agreement. I encourage all sides to come to the talks in good faith and with a flexible attitude in order to reach a political solution and a final way out of the current crisis. The path to peace may be arduous, but it can be navigated. Yemen is now at a crucial crossroads. One path leads to peace, while the other can only lead to a humanitarian and security crisis.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“The talks will begin on 18 April and seek to reach a comprehensive agreement to end the conflict and allow the resumption of inclusive political dialogue, in accordance with resolution 2216 (2015) and other relevant resolutions. The talks will build on a negotiating framework that provides a mechanism for a return to a peaceful and orderly transition based on the Gulf Cooperation Council Initiative and the National Dialogue outcomes. I will encourage the parties to the talks to negotiate a detailed way forward, starting with each of the following areas: the creation of interim security arrangements; the withdrawal of militias and armed groups; the hand-over of heavy weapons to the State; the restoration of State institutions and the resumption of inclusive political dialogue; and the release of prisoners and detainees.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“I also engaged in telephone calls with the Foreign Ministers of France, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, all of whom reiterated their support for the cessation of hostilities and the peace process facilitated by the United Nations. The success of the upcoming talks will require the consistent and coherent support of the region and the international community at large. In a few hours, I shall leave for Kuwait in order to facilitate the next round of Yemeni peace talks. In that context, I should like to express my sincere gratitude to the Government of Kuwait, which has generously offered to host the talks. I also extend my thanks to the Sultanate of Oman for its political and logistical support for the efforts of the United Nations in the region.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“My team and I have been engaged in extensive discussions over the past few months with Yemeni leaders and regional and international partners on the future direction of the country and possible outcomes of the Kuwait talks. I met with President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour four times, and wish to thank him for his support for my mission. I also met with senior Yemeni Government officials. I visited Sana'a several times for meetings with representatives of Ansar Allah and the General Popular Congress; His Royal Highness the Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammad bin Salman Al Saud; the Foreign Ministers of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Jordan; and the Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“In my recent visit to Brussels, which suffered a tragic terrorist attack on 22 March, I noted that the absence of the State in many parts of Yemen has encouraged the expansion of terrorist groups, creating a long-term threat to the country. The current cessation of hostilities will help to create an environment more conducive to preventing further radicalization and violent extremism, but much more needs to be done in order to prevent irreparable damage to the future of Yemen. I take this opportunity to note that this morning the Government of Yemen, supported by coalition forces, regained control of Al Hawtah, the capital of Lahij governorate, from Al-Qaida forces, which seized control of the city last summer.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“In order to help Yemen maintain its economic stability in this crisis, I have also pursued agreements seeking to maintain the operations of key State institutions, including the central bank, on which many people depend. Re-establishing institutions like the Social Welfare Fund, which provides cash transfers to the most vulnerable sectors of the population, will help prevent the disintegration of the social fabric and extreme poverty and accelerate economic recovery once an agreement is reached. On the security front, Yemen is facing a brutal war, on the one hand, and a significant terrorist threat, on the other. The Yemeni people continue to witness the devastation caused by terrorist attacks throughout the country.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“As part oftheir commitments under the cessation of hostilities, the parties have pledged to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and ensure unhindered access to humanitarian agencies. I call on all parties to support the important work being carried out by the humanitarian agencies. There is no doubt that humanitarian workers will do their utmost to deliver assistance to those in need, in particular in affected hard-to-reach areas. My colleague, Assistant Secretary-General Kyung-wha Kang, will brief the Council further on these efforts. There is no doubt that Yemen's rapidly deteriorating economy is further undermining the humanitarian situation.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“I should like to acknowledge the courage displayed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Ansar Allah in agreeing to settle border disputes. Both parties confirm that these agreements pave the way for a general cessation of hostilities in Yemen. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has supported both the Government of Yemen and the Houthis in signing a landmark agreement aimed at supporting the cessation of hostilities and the work of the de-escalation and coordination committee, as well as the local de-escalation committees, and supports the role of the United Nations. The role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been praised by both parties, which represents an important positive development in the current crisis. The humanitarian situation of the Yemeni people continues to deteriorate, causing additional human misery.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia bore witness to the signing of an agreement to form such committees upon the request of both parties. Most local communities are not yet fully functional, but we are working to ensure that they become more effective in the coming days. The early days of the cessation of hostilities witnessed a notable decrease in the level of military violence in most parts of the country. However, there are have also been an alarming number of serious violations, particularly in Al-Jawf, Amran, Marib and Ta'izz. Fighting in Ta'izz continues to claim civilian casualties, and I am concerned that a spiral ofescalating violence could threaten the success of the peace process. However, the events of the past two weeks have given me hope.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“The de-escalation and coordination committee established in the last round ofpeace talks in Switzerland has been working hard to prevent violations and avoid any military escalation. I commend the parties for their commitment to the work of the committee and thank the European Union, Germany, the Netherlands, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States for providing training to members of the committee and support for its operations. The agreement on the cessation of hostilities also raised local levels of support. The Government of Yemen and Ansar Allah have nominated local committees in militarily contested areas to work with the de-escalation and coordination committee to ensure better compliance with the cessation of hostilities.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“I thank you, Sir, for giving me this opportunity to brief the Security Council once again on the latest developments in Yemen. This briefing falls on the eve of the next round of face-to-face talks in Kuwait, where I hope the parties will come to an agreement on a clear way to end the violence and devastation in Yemen. As a result of months of intense negotiations, on 9 April I received letters from the Government of Yemen, the Ansar Allah and the General People's Congress, confirming their commitment to a nationwide cessation of hostilities. The cessation of hostilities began at midnight on 10 April, and I hope that it will provide an environment conducive to the upcoming talks, offer an opportunity for expanded humanitarian assistance, and provide a rare ray of hope to Yemenis longing for a return to peace.”
2016-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7672 (2016) · source
“That is the only way Yemenis will be be able to overcome the current violence and build a peace process that can bring together all of Yemen's diverse communities and allow them to jointly and peacefully look to their future and the future of their country.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“A new cessation of hostilities will open the way for new talks and an agreement on Yemen's return to a peaceful and orderly transition. I shall continue to work with all sides in Yemen, the region and the international community to build consensus on the key elements of such future agreements. The conflict in Yemen is political, so the solution must also be political. Only an inclusive peace process will ensure a future of reconciliation and peace in the country. The Yemeni people have shown a spirit of compromise in the interest of preserving the unity of their country many times in the past. We must collectively help Yemen regain that spirit of compromise.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“Unfortunately, I have not received sufficient assurances that a new cessation of hostilities, should I call for one, would be respected. As the Secretary-General has stated repeatedly, there is no military solution to this conflict. Recommitment to a cessation of hostilities leading to a permanent ceasefire is the practical expression of this truth. I urge the Security Council to support that step and take action towards its implementation as soon as possible. Yemen has suffered greatly. Its people have witnessed unspeakable tragedies. The country's infrastructure has been destroyed. Families have been dispersed. The social fabric is torn apart. This is a critical and most difficult phase. With every passing day, more and more Yemeni lives are lost.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“For that reason, the extensive damage to private-sector infrastructure is of great concern. In spite ofthe collapse ofthe cessation ofhostilities, the de-escalation and coordination committee has continued to function, with constructive participation by all sides. The parties have committed to strengthen the capacity of the committee and to agree on a precise location for its meetings. The work of the de-escalation and coordination committee is essential in order to ensure the success of the cessation of hostilities in the future. Despite those areas of limited progress, deep divisions persist that prevent me from calling for the next round of talks. The parties remain divided over whether a new round of talks should be convened with or without a new cessation of hostilities.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“Those are some positive measures that demonstrate a willingness to cooperate in order to preserve the viability and effectiveness of key State institutions in advance of a settlement. The implementation of those measures will require continued political support from all parties, as well as generous support from donors to replenish the various funds and mechanisms, so as to contribute to the stability of the Yemeni economy. The conflict is causing grave damage to the capacity of Yemen's public and private sectors. Both are critical for Yemen's future economic prospects and the ability of people to survive under the present circumstances. Humanitarian aid is critical, yet limited in its reach. Many Yemenis continue to rely on private-sector economic activity.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“I repeat my call to all parties to ensure that humanitarian agencies have free and unhindered access to all parts of Yemen. I have also pursued agreements that seek to preserve the functioning of key State institutions on which the Yemeni people depend. Preserving their functioning helps current service delivery and will also facilitate a faster and more effective recovery following an agreement. The Central Bank's Board of Directors met recently in Amman, with the participation of the Yemeni Minister of Finance and the Sana'a-based Central Bank Governor. Together with the Resident Coordinator, UNICEF and the World Bank, 1 am working to relaunch Yemen's Social Welfare Fund, which will provide critical financial support for the poorest of Yemen's people.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“That positive development was soon followed by the release of the Yemeni Minister of Technical and Vocational Education, Abdulrazzak Al-Ashwal, and four Yemeni political and media activists. I shall continue to press for, and work towards, the release of others detainees. Building on the commitments made in Switzerland, United Nations agencies and international non-governmental organizations expanded the delivery of assistance to Ta'izz, including to areas that had been cut off for many months. The World Health Organization, the World Food Programme and Medecins Sans Frontieres have all been able to deliver critically needed assistance to Ta'izz in recent weeks. I hope that that city and other areas that have suffered tremendously in recent months will continue to receive assistance on a regular basis.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“I also travelled to Sana'a, where I met with senior officials from the Houthis and the General People's Congress, as well as key political parties and women's and youth groups. During the latest round of consultations, I sought to ensure that some of the positive commitments that emerged from the talks in Switzerland were implemented. While far from a comprehensive settlement, those commitments yield tangible benefits for the Yemeni people and bolster the peace process. I worked for the release of two Saudi nationals by the Houthis on 14 January, after almost 10 months in captivity. That was welcomed by the Secretary- General and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“I have been engaged in intensive consultations with Yemeni leaders and regional partners in recent weeks. I discussed the challenges facing the peace process with the Foreign Ministers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the Sultanate of Oman, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, France and with the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Deputy Foreign Minister of Japan and the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea, all of whom underlined their continued support for an end to violence in Yemen and a political settlement. I met with Yemeni Vice-President and Prime Minister Khaled Bahah on 8 and 16 January, in addition to holding repeated meetings with representatives of the Yemeni Government, other Yemeni leaders and civil society members.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“Acts of intimidation, harassment and disappearances ofjournalists are a clear violation ofthe Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Yemenis continue to face grave violations of international humanitarian law. Respect for human rights and international humanitarian law is critical to the ability of Yemenis to survive the current crisis with dignity and safety. The agencies, funds and programmes of the United Nations are doing their utmost to uphold the rights of Yemenis and provide much-needed assistance. It is important that all United Nations staff be able to work in safety and without restriction. I call on the Government of Yemen and all other stakeholders to uphold those principles and to respect and support the work of the United Nations and its agencies.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source
“That creates a long-term threat for both the country and the region. The absence of the State in many parts of Yemen has facilitated the expansion of those terrorist groups. Al-Qaida and the Islamic State are present in many parts of Yemeni territory. There are reports of their growing influence in large areas of the governorate of Hadramout and their control of its port, maritime traffic and illegal oil trade. Reports of attacks on civilians, including stonings and executions of captured civilians and Yemeni army soldiers, are deeply worrying. The basic freedoms of Yemenis, including the freedom of expression, continue to be undermined. There has been significant rise in the systematic persecution of civil society activists in Yemen, including reports of violent attacks and arbitrary detention of many journalists.”
2016-02-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7625 (2016) · source