[23/04/2025 05:44]

CAIRO - SABA
The Republic of Yemen has concluded its presidency of the 162nd Regular Session of the Arab League Council at the ministerial level.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Shaya Zindani handed over the presidency to his counterpart Deputy Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister of Jordan Ayman Safadi, at the start of the 163rd session held today at the Arab League General Secretariat in Cairo.

Minister Zindani expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the member states and the General Secretariat for their support and cooperation during Yemen's presidency, which lasted over seven months.

He affirmed that this period was marked by fruitful collective work that strengthened the path of joint Arab action and supported Arab issues, particularly the Palestinian Issue as the central issue of the nation.

He emphasized Yemen’s commitment during its presidency to enhance mechanisms for coordination, consultation and Arab solidarity, based on the principles of the Arab League Charter.

He highlighted the significance of the meetings held during this phase, notably the consultative meeting of Arab foreign ministers in New York, which was a pivotal moment for unifying positions regarding regional and international developments, including the Israeli aggression against Gaza and Lebanon.

The foreign minister praised the positions of member states during Yemen's presidency of the council, especially in supporting Lebanon, providing urgent humanitarian assistance to Palestinians, and addressing violations by the Israeli occupation, including the Knesset's decision to ban UNRWA activities in the occupied territories and the military escalation in Syria.

He highlighted the diligent efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other countries to ensure recognition of the State of Palestine.

He expressed confidence in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan's ability to lead the current session with wisdom and efficiency, wishing Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi success in presiding over the 163rd session of the council.

Several decisions were issued during the session, most notably the decision regarding the situation in the Republic of Yemen, which affirmed support for the legitimate government led by the Presidential Leadership Council headed by Dr. Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi, and renewed the Arab position supporting peace based on the agreed-upon three references.

The decision condemned the practices of the Houthi terrorist militia, including violations of peace agreements and initiatives, targeting economic resources and committing serious violations against civilians and workers in international and humanitarian organizations.

He also emphasized the importance of supporting the Yemeni government in its efforts to achieve security and peace and alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people.

Regarding developments in the Palestinian issue, the council condemned the ongoing Israeli occupation and its crimes against the Palestinian people, calling on the Security Council to take a decision under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter to compel the occupation to cease fire in Gaza and ensure the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid.

The council approved several decisions to enhance the Arab Peace Initiative, support the budget of the State of Palestine, assist the resilience of the Palestinian people, address settlement activities, and follow up on the issues of prisoners and refugees, in addition to supporting UNRWA in carrying out its humanitarian and relief role.

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