Security Council Press Statement on Situation in Yemen

 

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Vitaly Churkin (Russian Federation):

On 21 December, the members of the Security Council heard a briefing on the situation in Yemen from the United Nations Special Adviser, Jamal Benomar.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the progress that had been made on implementing the political transition, on the basis of the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative, as well as the implementation mechanism, which is resulting in a peaceful transition of power, as called for in Security Council resolution 2014 (2011).  They welcomed the formation of the Government of National Unity.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their call that the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative and implementation mechanism must be implemented in a transparent and timely manner, and in a spirit of inclusion and reconciliation.   They noted the Security Council’s support for Yemen in its efforts to reach key milestones in the implementation plan, and expected the parties to continue to honour the timetable set out in the agreement, including the presidential elections on 21 February, the national dialogue, the constitutional review and the programme of reforms to tackle the profound security, humanitarian and economic challenges that Yemen faces.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their commitment to the territorial integrity and unity of Yemen.   They urged all the parties to reject violence, refrain from any further provocations and to fully implement Security Council resolution 2014 (2011).   The members of the Security Council reiterated that all those responsible for violence, human rights violations and abuses should be held accountable.   The members of the Security Council emphasized the need for unimpeded humanitarian access to address the growing crisis.   The members of the Security Council also called on all the Yemeni parties to work with the increasing support of the United Nations, international community and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, immediately towards achieving peace, stability and reconciliation, as well as alleviating the humanitarian and economic situation in Yemen.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the efforts of the good offices of the Secretary-General and his Special Adviser, Jamal Benomar.  They reaffirmed their intention to continue to actively monitor the security, political and humanitarian situation in Yemen and the implementation of Security Council resolution 2014 (2011).   They looked forward to further timely updates on the situation, including on the status of the implementation of the political transition agreements.

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For information media • not an official record