Sweden,  11 December 2018 - The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, held a press conference on the fifth day of the political consultations between the Yemeni parties. Griffiths reported progress on a number of issues, highlighting that the two parties have been discussing the details of re-opening Sanaa airport, the de-escalation measures in both Tae’z and Hudayda, and the implementation of the exchange of prisoners’ agreement, as well as the economic situation. The Special Envoy mentioned that tangible agreements will be announced by the end of this round.

Griffiths clarified that the exact date and venue of the next round of consultations are being discussed with the two parties, mentioning that early next year is the target date. The Special Envoy reiterated his encouragement by the positive and serious spirit that the two parties have demonstrated in this round, stressing that he remains ambitious about the outcome of this round. “Hope is the currency of the mediator; if you do not provide a sense of optimism and hope for the parties, you will not encourage people to walk the extra mile. I hope we can make some breakthroughs in the next couple of days.”