Maldives has called for international solidarity in the face of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
The statement was made by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, in the High-Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen, via videoconference on June 2. The high-level meeting was co-hosted by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs at the UN Mark Lowcock, on behalf of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.
In his remarks at the high-level meeting, Minister Shahid raised his concerns on the escalating conflict in Yemen and urged all parties to declare a ceasefire in the wake of widespread famine and forced displacement. The minister noted more than 24 million Yemenis are currently dependent on external aid to survive in extreme poverty, deprived from the most basic and essential services that are key to a dignified life. He drew attention to the link between peace in Yemen, stability in the Middle East and solidarity within the Islamic world.
Foreign Minister Shahid stated the people of Yemen must be granted unhindered access to channels of humanitarian aid which must remain functional, under all circumstances. He further underscored the importance of establishing a unified global response that prioritises the needs of the people of Yemen and assured the unwavering support of the Maldives towards alleviating the humanitarian crisis.
The High-level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian crisis in Yemen 2020 was held to raise awareness on the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, mobilise resources for the humanitarian response and promote respect for international humanitarian law and human rights. The event witnessed generous pledges from several UN member states in the presence of international financial institutions, leading UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs.