- FO urges resolving the situation in Yemen through diplomacy.
- Pakistan supports unity and territorial integrity of Yemen: FO.
- Islamabad is ready to play a role in strengthening the partnership.
Pakistan has appreciated the efforts made by Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Yemen, saying such efforts reflect the two countries’ “common desire for regional peace.”
Tension flared in the region after a Saudi-led coalition carried out an airstrike on Yemen’s southern port of Mukalla, attacking what it described as foreign military support for southern separatists in Yemen.
In a statement on Friday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s stance to resolve 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 UAE in addressing 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 maintained 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 UAE 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 backed the call for UAE forces to leave Yemen.
The UAE was a member of the Saudi-led coalition that fought the Houthis in Yemen since 2015.
In 2019, it began a withdrawal of its troops in the country, but maintained its commitment to the internationally recognized government.
Days earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing peace and stability through dialogue and diplomacy.
During the telephone conversation on December 31 last year, both leaders discussed bilateral relations and the evolving situation in the region.
The Prime Minister emphasized the need for unity and coordination within the Muslim community to address the current challenges.
