Egypt has expressed its strong support for the mechanisms adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia towards the easing of tensions in Yemen, Sudan, and Somaliland, emphasizing the importance of the unity and integrity of the state. This came following discussions between the Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi and the Saudi Foreign Affairs Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan.
A statement by the Egyptian presidency stated that both leaders have an exact same opinion on the peaceful solution for the crises in the region. They highlighted stability in Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, and Gaza, as well as countries’ sovereignty in any solution.
Regarding Yemen, Sisi welcomed Saudi Arabia’s plan to hold an inclusive gathering for southern Yemeni movements to promote dialogue and ease military conflict. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for a Yemeni-led political resolution to ease conflict and enhance stability.
The conflict in Yemen is between the globally recognized government and the Southern Transitional Council, a southern separatist group in Yemen. Over the weekend, the government in Yemen accused the Southern Transitional Council of blockading Aden and threatened to do whatever is necessary after regaining control over eastern regions.
The STC was pleased with the Saudi Arabian initiative, referring to the dialogue call as an “authentic opportunity for serious talks” that could serve the protection of the Southern aspirations. The council was ready to participate in the dialogue to stop the recent escalation of tensions and ensure the regional security of the Southern provinces of Yemen.
On the other hand, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed support for the dialogue process, telling Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman via a phone call, “We are prepared to bring the parties to the table, Mr. Prince, and help find a way out of this crisis, and we are ready for this.
Furthermore, the President of Yemen’s Presidential Council, Tarek Saleh, met the Saudi Defence Minister, Prince Khaled bin Salman, to address the joint actions that should be taken to maintain stability in Yemen.
The joint diplomatic effort by Egypt and Saudi Arabia suggests a refocus on finding a political solution in Yemen, with a goal of resolving their longstanding differences as well as alleviating both humanitarian and security crises. Many consider inclusive dialogue the key to finding a lasting peace in Yemen or the regions surrounding it.
