[05/05/2026 05:18]

ADEN – SABA

Yemen’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Mukhtar Al-Yafai, met on Monday in the interim capital of Aden with Swiss Ambassador to Yemen Dr. Thomas Ortle to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation and expand support for social protection programs, child welfare, and sustainable development.

During the meeting, Al-Yafai reviewed areas of Swiss funding and assistance. He said the ministry is looking to deepen the partnership to bolster humanitarian and development initiatives, and stressed its commitment to regulating civil society organizations in line with standards of efficiency and transparency.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s support for expanding the activities of international and local organizations across all governorates. He said this would help address labor market imbalances and contribute to economic and social stability. He also reiterated the government’s welcome to organizations operating from Aden and its pledge to provide necessary facilitation while ensuring the neutrality of humanitarian work so aid reaches those in need without discrimination.

Al-Yafai also announced plans to hold an international conference to mobilize support for child protection programs. He called on international partners to back the conference, citing the economic challenges that are worsening conditions for families and disproportionately affecting children.

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