- High-level meeting reiterates support to Saudi Arabia, welcomes UNSC resolution of calling on Houthis to end use of violence, hopes for peace resolution of Yemen crisis
Chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, a high-level meeting on Yemen conflict was held on Thursday expressed satisfaction on the efforts being made by the government and people of Pakistan for standing shoulder to shoulder with the Saudi brothers for playing a constructive role for “peaceful” resolution of the crisis.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who visited Saudi Arabia as prime minister’s special envoy along with a delegation, briefed the meeting about the outcome of their discussions with the Saudi leadership. The visit’s objective was to express solidarity with the leadership and people of Saudi Arabia.
During this visit, the delegation met Interior Minister and Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Nayef and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal.
The meeting was apprised that Shahbaz reiterated unequivocal support of the government and people of Pakistan to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Saudi Arabia while reaffirming that the people of Pakistan stand ever-ready to protect Harmain Al-Sharifain and the people of Saudi Arabia.
The meeting was informed that the Saudi leaders reciprocated the warmth of relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed the special bond of friendship between the two countries.
The Saudi leadership also appreciated Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s statement amplifying the unanimously adopted resolution of the parliament.
The delegation held detailed discussions with the Saudi leadership on the situation in Yemen and condemned the violent overthrow of the legitimate government of President Hadi by the Houthis.
The civil and military leadership was further informed that the delegation welcomed the adoption of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution of calling upon the Houthis to end the use of violence that undermines political transition in Yemen, and calls upon them to withdraw their forces from all areas they have seized, including the capital Sana’a, and relinquish all arms seized from military and security institutions.
The delegation also expressed its concerns on the reports of foreign support to the Houthis and noted with satisfaction that the UN resolution requires all member states to prevent supply of arms and equipment to Houthis and their allies.
During their briefing, the delegation members said that they affirmed the Saudi leadership that the government of Pakistan would fully participate and contribute to the implementation of the UN resolution, and discuss the possibility of expanding Pakistan’s cooperation with Saudi Arabia in compatibility with the Security Council’s resolution.