Negotiations are continuing here to secure the release of Abdullah Al-Khalidi, the Saudi diplomat, who was abducted recently in Aden. It has also been confirmed that Al-Khalidi is in good health, according to Sheikh Sultan Al-Bakiri, Chairman of the tribal mediation committee and Sheikh of Al-Bakiri tribe, one of the Qahtan tribes in the Yemeni Mareb governorate. Al-Bakiri said that he arrived in Aden and was negotiating with the abductors to get further information on their demands and to guarantee the release of Al-Khalidi, the Saudi Deputy Consul in Aden. He declined to disclose the reasons for the kidnapping, but expressed optimism that a peaceful solution can be reached. Al-Bakiri said the kidnappers have made a big mistake which they have to rectify. He said Al-Khalidi was well-known and well-liked throughout his five-year tenure in Aden. Al-Bakiri said his tribe travelled a long way to negotiate with the kidnappers. “We condemn it. We call on all the sheikhs of Yemen and its tribes to follow in our footsteps by condemning this operation in word and deed. They must reject this bad phenomenon that is harming all Yemenis in the country and abroad. It is a crime according to government laws and tribal norms. Serving the Kingdom and its people is an honor for my tribe. The Kingdom is hosting Yemeni nationals with love and respect.” Meanwhile, a security source confirmed to Okaz/Saudi Gazette that talks are ongoing with the abductors of the Saudi Deputy Consul. He stressed that the security authorities are making every effort to ensure his release. Information obtained by Okaz/Saudi Gazette from informed sources indicates that the kidnappers are demanding SR100,000 for the diplomat's release. The Al-Bakiri tribe succeeded in securing the release in May 2011 of Sa'eed Al-Malki, the First Secretary in the Saudi embassy in Sana'a, after he was held by kidnappers for 13 days. __
