Gulf-European Summit affirms support for sustainable peace process in Yemen

BRUSSELS – SABA
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU) have expressed their full support for a comprehensive political peace process in Yemen, under the auspices of the United Nations, in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2216.

In the final statement of the Gulf-European summit held yesterday, Wednesday, in the Belgian capital Brussels, they reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Red Sea, which is essential for global trade and the movement of essential goods, including the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Yemen, as well as safe passage through these maritime routes.

The GCC and the EU expressed deep concern over the threats to security and navigation in the sea, calling on the Houthi militia to cease its attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, and to avoid any further escalatory measures that threaten global security and stability.

The statement welcomed the efforts made to contain any environmental impacts following the terrorist attacks launched by the Houthis on the Greek oil tanker “Sounion.”

The GCC and the EU urged the Houthi militias to immediately and unconditionally release humanitarian workers, UN staff, and local diplomats held by the militias, which hinder the international community’s ability to assist millions of Yemenis.

They praised the efforts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the United Nations to reach a comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable political solution.