International conference emphasizes the importance of the security of Yemeni coasts, and Saudi Arabia provides support worth $4 million.

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Arabian Sea - Yemen - Follow-ups: Participants in the international conference on maritime partnership with Yemen emphasized the need to tangibly enhance the security of Yemeni waters and coasts through commercial and voluntary partnerships aimed at developing Yemen's capabilities in combating drugs and illicit maritime challenges. This came during the conference hosted by the Saudi capital, Riyadh, on Tuesday, organized jointly by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government, with the participation of more than 40 countries. The conference resulted in significant financial pledges to support the Yemeni Coast Guard through specialized training programs, the provision of modern equipment, and the strengthening of their local contributions. At the conclusion of the conference, the establishment of a special secretariat, managed through the Technical Assistance Program for Yemen, was announced, with the aim of coordinating international efforts and ensuring that support reaches its destination. The Yemeni Coast Guard, known for its efficiency and effective leadership, will also receive additional support to enable it to improve its operational capabilities along the coasts, which will contribute to enhancing the security of coastal communities and raising the level of protection for one of the most important waterways in the world. Participants affirmed that these initiatives represent a collective response to maritime security challenges that threaten international trade routes, noting that Yemeni waters have long suffered from smuggling, piracy, and other threats, making their security an essential part of the security of the international community. The Yemeni Foreign Minister praised the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in hosting and making the conference a success, also appreciating the role of the United Kingdom in establishing the technical support mechanism for Yemen, which was announced in January 2025. He explained that this initiative constitutes a long-term partnership fund to enhance the capabilities of the Yemeni government and its national institutions. The Minister also stressed the strategic importance of the Yemeni coasts extending from the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab, as a vital artery for global trade, warning of the continued attacks launched by the Houthi militias on these vital waterways, and the resulting serious effects on the global economy and the humanitarian situation in Yemen. The Minister praised the professionalism and steadfastness of the Yemeni Coast Guard forces despite their limited capabilities and difficult circumstances, calling on the international community to increase financial and technical support for this national institution, including training, transfer of expertise, and the provision of the necessary technology and systems for monitoring and rapid response. For his part, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Yemen, Mohammed Al Jaber, told the media: "The Kingdom congratulates Yemen on the partnership of this large number of countries in making this important conference a success, given its strategic importance for the security and stability of the Red Sea and its direct impact on international navigation." Ambassador Al Jaber added: "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced the provision of direct support to the Yemeni Coast Guard in the amount of 4 million dollars, while the rest of the countries will contribute to providing technical support and joint training.", praising at the same time the efforts of the Yemeni Coast Guard soldiers and their steadfastness despite the current challenges.