The EU Delegation to Yemen organised a Europe Day reception attended by Yemeni Ambassador to Jordan Jalal Faqirah, EU Ambassadors accredited to Yemen, diplomats and Yemeni civil society representatives last week in Amman, EEAS reports.
Ambassador Gabriel Munuera Viñals on Europe Day held in Amman on 15 May said:
“I am deeply honoured to stand before you on this occasion as we pay tribute to the visionary Declaration made by Robert Schuman on 9 May 1950, which laid the foundation for European integration.
In 1950, Europe was still reeling from the aftermath of the Second World War, grappling with the profound scars left by years of conflict and devastation. It was against this backdrop of uncertainty and hardship that the Declaration of 9th May emerged as a beacon of hope, offering a vision of peace, prosperity, and stability for future generations.
As we reflect on the progress we have made since that day, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. The world we live in is fraught with complexity and uncertainty, with geopolitical tensions posing significant threats to global stability and security.”
Conflict in Gaza remained grave concern
Viñals stated that the situation in Palestine remained a grave concern. The recent escalation of violence in Gaza had resulted in countless innocent deaths and had further exacerbated an already dire humanitarian crisis. it’s important to protect civilians and an immediate ceasefire by both sides is essential to achieving sustainable peace, the Ambassador added.
The Ambassador also quoted Josep Borrell, who clearly stated at the European Parliament plenary session on 23 April:
“We have to repeat once again that Israel must respect international law, implement the International Court of Justice’s provisional measures, ensure the protection of all civilians, and allow humanitarian workers to do their lifesaving job”.
Viñals also expressed concern about the situation in Yemen. He said that amid a recent surge of hope for peace in the country, the Houthis have begun attacking international shipping, disrupting vital sea lanes in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These reckless actions, widely condemned by the world community, particularly the UN Security Council, have damaged maritime security, tragically resulting in the deaths of innocent seafarers simply doing their duty.
He called on all conflicting parties, especially the Houthis, to engage constructively in peacekeeping efforts under UN auspices, strongly condemning the attacks on civilian infrastructure and advocating for accountability.
