Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has called for international solidarity to overcome the humanitarian crisis that is ongoing in Yemen.
According to the Foreign Ministry, Foreign Minister Shahid participated in the High-Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen, via videoconference on Wednesday. The meeting was co-hosted by His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Mr Mark Lowcock, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, on behalf of His Excellency Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations.
In his remarks, Minister Shahid raised his concerns on the escalating conflict in Yemen and urged all parties to declare a ceasefire in the wake of widespread famine and forced displacement. Currently, more than 24 million Yemenis are dependent on external aid to survive in extreme poverty, deprived of the most basic and essential services that are key to a dignified life. He drew attention to the link between peace in Yemen, stability in the Middle East and solidarity within the Islamic Ummah.
“The people of Yemen must be granted unhindered access to channels of humanitarian aid which must remain functional, under all circumstances,” Minister Shahid said, as he noted the devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ongoing crisis. He further underscored the importance of establishing a unified global response that prioritises the needs of the people of Yemen and assured the unwavering support of the Maldives towards alleviating the humanitarian crisis.
The event was held to raise awareness on the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, mobilise resources for the humanitarian response and promote respect for international humanitarian law and human rights. The Event witnessed generous pledges from the several UN Member States in the presence of international financial institutions, leading UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs.
