- FO calls for a resolution of the situation in Yemen through diplomacy.
- Pakistan supports Yemen’s unity and territorial integrity: FO.
- Islamabad is ready to play a role in strengthening the partnership.
Pakistan appreciated the efforts made by Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Yemen, saying these efforts reflected the two countries’ “common desire for regional peace”.
Tension erupted in the region after a Saudi-led coalition carried out an airstrike on the southern Yemeni port of Mukalla, hitting what it described as foreign military support for southern Yemen’s separatists.
In a statement issued on Friday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s position aimed at resolving the situation in Yemen through dialogue and diplomacy.
“Pakistan reiterates its commitment to the unity and territorial integrity of Yemen and hopes that the positive steps taken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will contribute to the peaceful resolution of the issue,” he said.
The FO spokesperson appreciated “the wisdom and foresight shown” by the leaders of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in handling the situation in Yemen.
“Such efforts reflect a common desire for regional peace and stability on the part of the two brotherly countries,” he said.
Andrabi asserted that Islamabad was ready to play its role in strengthening the values of partnership, brotherhood and unity for lasting peace and stability in the region.
The United Arab Emirates announced the withdrawal of its forces in Yemen after the head of the country’s presidential council, Rashad al-Alimi, asked UAE forces to leave Yemen within 24 hours.
Saudi Arabia also supported the call for UAE forces to leave Yemen.
The UAE was a member of the Saudi-led coalition that has been fighting the Houthis in Yemen since 2015.
In 2019, it began withdrawing its troops from the country, but remained committed to the internationally recognized government.
Days earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing peace and stability through dialogue and diplomacy.
During their telephone conversation on December 31 last year, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and developments in the region.
The Prime Minister stressed the need for unity and coordination within the Muslim Ummah to address the current challenges.
