Prince Saud Al-Faisal, the Minister of Foreign Affairs described the 3rd ministerial meeting of the Friends of Yemen Group as constructive and positive, during which the future role of the group has been reviewed, in the context of goals of restoration of stability and security throughout Yemen and preservation of its sovereignty, independence and national and territorial integrity. The Foreign Minister was addressing a press conference he held here today, following the meeting, in the presence of both British Minister of State for Middle East Affairs at the Foreign Office Alistair Burt and Yemeni Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abu-Bakr Al-Qurbi. Today's meeting follows the success of a transitional political stage in Yemen, in accordance with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-sponsored initiative and the international back- up it secured, a fact that contributed to realizing peaceful transition of power, Prince Al-Faisal stated. No doubt that the percentage of participation and the heavy voting in the elections are indications of confidence of Yemeni people in this government, he said. The meeting has taken into consideration that consolidating security and stability is a prerequisite to realize development and prosperity, he added, pointing that this would enable the Yemeni Government of National Unity, supported by the world community and concerned bodies to improve the conditions of the Yemeni people and to achieve development and revival, in accordance with needed projects and development programs. World support for Yemen will include cooperation with the government of national unity, through providing it with expertise and aid needed in economic, administrative, security and military fields, he confirmed. Prince Al-Faisal commended the leading role played by the fraternal Yemeni people and its entire social segments and political orientations, in shouldering the national responsibility, pushing this peaceful efforts towards achieving its goals, in solving the crisis and guarantee the smooth transition of power, expressing hope that the positive spirit will continue and prevail, in order to enhance GCC and world endeavors to realize the goals of backing-up the Yemeni people and to keep it away of any external intervention that would sow internal sedition. -- More
