Source: Prime Minister’s Office
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak received Arsenio Dominguez, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), along with his accompanying delegation, who are visiting Yemen for the first time, to assess the impacts and repercussions of the Houthi militia’s terrorist attacks on international navigation.
During the meeting, they reviewed the security situation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in light of the Houthi threats and attacks against commercial ships and international navigation, the cooperation between Yemen, the IMO, and its member states to enhance joint coordination, and the enhancement of the capabilities of the concerned bodies for maritime security and safety in Yemen.
Prime Minister Dr. bin Mubarak discussed developments in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden resulting from the Iranian-backed Houthi piracy, which has disrupted navigation in this vital maritime passage, as well as the resulting humanitarian and environmental disasters. He also addressed the ongoing detention of the Galaxy Leader ship and its crew, emphasizing the responsibility of the international organization and its member states to support the Yemeni government in regaining control over its coasts to ensure the security of the Red Sea, considering this a national, regional, and international interest.
Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak welcomed the Secretary-General of the IMO on this significant visit, looking forward to the outcomes that could strengthen partnership frameworks between Yemen and the IMO, reinforcing coordination to tackle the increasing challenges facing international navigation in one of the world’s most vital maritime passages. He reaffirmed Yemen’s commitment to implementing the international agreements and treaties it has joined through the IMO and its intention to form the National Maritime Security Committee.
In turn, the IMO Secretary-General reiterated that the protection of maritime navigation constitutes a major priority for the organization, including preventing the deterioration of maritime security in this crucial area. He highlighted the IMO’s support for the Yemeni government and coordination with it on all measures ensuring the safety of maritime navigation, urging IMO member states to support Yemen’s capabilities in this aspect.
