Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japanese and Yemeni officials confirmed bilateral cooperation and called for an extension of the ceasefire agreement to achieve lasting peace in Yemen.

HIGASHI Kazuhiro, Chargé d’affaires of Japan in Yemen, visited the country from March 19 – 21 to exchange views with Yemeni government officials and observe the local situation. According to a statement by the foreign ministry in Tokyo, the visit included Aden and safety measures were in place.

Azuma paid a courtesy call to Yemeni Prime Minister Maeen Abdulmalik Saeed and explained Japan’s humanitarian assistance to Yemen through international organizations. He praised the Yemeni government’s efforts to extend the ceasefire agreement that expired last October. In addition, Chargé d’affaires Azuma stated that Japan will continue to cooperate with the Yemeni government to support a lasting peace in the country.

In response, Prime Minister Saeed expressed gratitude for Japan’s humanitarian assistance and contributions toward the realization of peace and stability in Yemen, and stated that he would also like to continue working with Japan.

During their discussion, Azuma announced the implementation of the 2022 grant aid project “The Project for Improving Efficiency at the Port of Aden” (collaborating with UNDP) to support the efforts of the Yemeni government to strengthen the functions of the interim capital of Aden.

Azuma also met Dr. Abdul Salam Sale Humaid, Minister of Transport, Dr. Nazar Abdullah Nasser Basuhaib, Vice Minister of International Cooperation and Planning and other Yemeni government officials. The Deputy Minister of Planning and International Cooperation recently visited Japan to participate in JICA training which aims to improve the ability to formulate reconstruction plans.

The statement said the government of Japan, in cooperation with the United Nations and relevant countries, intends to continue working actively toward achieving peace and stability in Yemen by providing necessary assistance and through diplomatic efforts.