RIYADH - SABA
Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad al-Hadhrami discussed Tuesday with Russian Counterpart Sergey Lavrov through telephone call relations between the two countries and peace developments in Yemen and efforts for reaching a political solution to the crisis.

Al-Hadhrami expressed appreciation to Russian firm position supporting the internationally-recognized Yemeni government, confirming keenness of the government on realizing peace based on the three internationally agreed upon references; the GCC Initiative, the outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference and the Security Council's Resolution 2216.

He touched upon Safir Oil Tanker issue, which represents environmental threat to Yemen and the region, as well as to the international maritime navigation, pointing out to Houthi militia's stubbornness for solving this issue and not allowing access to the UN technical team to the tanker for maintenance work and draining it from oil.
Regarding Riyadh Agreement, al-Hadhrami said the government has honored its commitments included in the mechanism of speeding up implementation of the agreement and appointed a governor to Aden, confirming that formation of the government and its return to Aden is a gain to all Yemeni people and a strong breakthrough for realizing peace in Yemen.

He stressed necessity of respecting the agreement by the Southern Transitional Council and implementing their commitments in accordance with the mechanism, especially brining military units out of Aden and allowing to the newly appointed Security Director to take his responsibilities.

The foreign minister confirmed significance of regaining order in the Province of Socotra Archipelago and ending military rebellion in it, stressing government's keenness on protecting the security and safety of this island, which is included in the UNESCO's International Heritage list.

For his part, the Russian foreign minister praised historical ties between the two countries, renewing his country's support to Yemen's unity and sovereignty.

He stressed significance of reaching political solution ending conflict and suffering of Yemeni people.

Lovrov confirmed Russian support to efforts of the UN envoy to Yemen and to his initiative for realizing peace in Yemen.