EU celebrates Europe Day inside Yemen for first time since start of conflict

In his remarks, EU Ambassador Patrick Simonnet said the celebration in Yemen's interim capital carried a strong message of support from the EU and its Member States to the internationally recognised Government of Yemen as it pursues stabilisation and reform. He reiterated the EU's full support for UN-led peace efforts and stressed that only a political negotiated political settlement can bring a sustainable end to the conflict.

Ambassador Simonnet welcomed the inclusiveness of the cabinet, including the appointment of three female ministers, and commended recent reform steps, notably the adoption of a state budget for the first time in seven years. He reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting Yemeni institutions diplomatically, politically and technically.

The Ambassador also highlighted the EU's role as one of Yemen's largest humanitarian and development partners, with support focused on economic development and job creation, resilient communities, and peace and security. He paid tribute to the late Wisam Qaid, acting director of the Social Fund for Development, describing his assassination as a "cowardly" act that would only reinforce the EU's determination to support Yemen, its institutions and its people.