UN Security Council welcomes Saudi Arabia’s efforts on Yemen

Abu Dhabi: UN Security Council has welcomed the efforts of Saudi Arabia to reactivate the Riyadh Agreement, and underlined the importance of swift and effective implementation, Saudi media reported.

The Security Council also reaffirmed resolution 2532 and reiterated support for the 25 March Secretary-General call for a cessation of hostilities. They expressed deep concern at funding shortfalls that exacerbate the growing risk of acute malnutrition. They called on all donors to urgently step-up, disburse their pledges, and save lives.

UN Special Envoy Griffiths and Under-Secretary General Lowcock briefed the Security Council about delays to the political process and warned of increasing levels of acute malnutrition.

The council was also briefed about the situation for persons with disabilities as well as the health system.

The members of the Security Council emphasised their support for inclusivity in the Yemeni-led and Yemeni-owned political process, as set out in relevant UN resolutions, including resolution 2216 (2015), as well as by the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative and its implementation mechanism and the outcome of the National Dialogue Conference.

They expressed steadfast support for Griffiths, and called on the parties to agree to the mediated proposals with haste.

The Security Council reiterated deep alarm at the growing risk the Safer oil tanker could rupture or explode.

The members of the Security Council noted conflicting Al Houthi announcements regarding UN access to the Safer tanker, and called for concrete action as soon as possible, including agreeing to entry permits, a safe travel route to the tanker, and all other logistical arrangements, in order to facilitate unconditional access for United Nations technical experts to assess the tanker’s condition, conduct any possible urgent repairs, and make recommendations for the safe extraction of the oil, ensuring close cooperation with the United Nations. They looked forward to seeing concrete action implemented without delay.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their strong commitment to the unity, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Yemen.