Summary: 26 August 2009, Brussels - Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union on the deteriorating security situation in Yemen
While recognising the responsibility of the Government of Yemen to maintain peace and security within its territory, the European Union is concerned by the recent escalation of the fighting around Sa'dah, which has caused a number of civilian casualties and a worrying number of internally displaced people. The European Union is also concerned about the impact of a further spread of the conflict to neighbouring Yemeni Governorates and to the wider region.
The European Union reminds all parties of their obligation to respect human rights law and international humanitarian law. It particularly calls on the parties to allow civilians wishing to escape from the conflict to reach places of safety, to facilitate access for the UN and NGOs to areas where internally displaced have gathered and to urgently allow emergency medical and humanitarian relief to reach those internally displaced.
The European Union calls upon all parties to cease fighting immediately. The European Union considers that only a comprehensive political solution can achieve lasting peace, and calls on all parties to work actively towards a negotiated settlement.
The European Union reaffirms its support for a unified, stable and democratic Yemen. The stability of Yemen is crucial for the people of Yemen and for the region as a whole.
The European Union remains committed to reinforcing its partnership with Yemen in close co-operation with regional partners, especially the Gulf Co-operation Council.
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