The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, concluded a visit to Riyadh today where he met senior Yemeni, regional, and international officials and diplomats. Discussions focused on next steps to facilitate an agreement on measures to improve living conditions in Yemen, a nationwide ceasefire, and an inclusive intra-Yemeni political process under UN auspices.

Grundberg met with the President of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad Al Alimi, to discuss the progress of UN peace mediation efforts. The Special Envoy stressed that Yemen is going through a critical juncture that still has the potential of bringing Yemenis closer to the just peace they aspire for.

The Special Envoy also held a meeting with the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, GCC, Jasem Al Budaiwi. They agreed on the need for continued regional accompaniment to Yemen through peace and recovery. He additionally met with the Saudi Ambassador to Yemen, Mohamed Al Jaber, to explore ways to sustain concerted regional and international efforts to resume a viable political process facilitated by the UN. 

Grundberg had discussions with the P5 Ambassadors to Yemen on the need for continued Security Council consensus in support of a sustainable, inclusive political solution in Yemen that meets the aspirations of Yemeni men and women.

“A sustainable solution to the conflict in Yemen can only be forged by Yemenis. The parties need to come together with others in an inclusive format to build a peaceful future together. The UN is committed and ready to provide this platform once the parties take the decisive steps that are needed to make this vision a reality,” Grundberg said.