Geneva, 28 February 2023 (TDI): Norwegian Minister of Foreign affairs, Anniken Huitfeldt participated in a High-level Pledging Conference for Yemen held on 27 February 2023.
The conference was co-hosted by the United Nations (UN) and the Governments of Sweden and Switzerland.
They brought together the representatives of EU member states, international organizations, and civil societies to raise funds for Yemen’s humanitarian crisis.
Norway’s Minister for Foreign Affairs addressed the conference. She delivered a profound statement highlighting the plight of Yemenis, affected due to the crisis.
She stated that about two-thirds of Yemenis depend on international humanitarian aid. The matter is of grave concern. The ongoing conflict in Yemen needs urgent redressal and human suffering should come to an end.
The Norwegian Minister called the de-escalation as seen in the last eight months a ray of hope for Yeminis. It reinforces the UN-led peace process.
The peace process should be adequately comprehensive and inclusive of women. The peace process will not be of any constructive outcomes without women playing an active role.
For the first time in years, the formal ceasefire of last year provided a space for dialogue between warring factions.
Also read: EU Committee for civilian aspects of Crisis Management visits Sweden
The dialogues efforts are a silver lining in the political process in Yemen. Norway has urged all parties to uphold the principles of the truce and work towards renewing it after its expiration.
The reports of increasing security challenges, lack of humanitarian space, and access to rural communities undermine the assistance work of the humanitarian community.
The Minister urged the conflicting parties to respect international human rights laws. The civilians including women and children must be provided protection.
Norway continues to give high priority to the humanitarian response in Yemen. She expressed her pleasure to announce a contribution of 250 million Norwegian kroner in 2023.
Norway has contributed 250 million Norwegian Kroner to Yemen and is resolute to increase financial support in the coming time.
Lastly, the Minister expressed his gratitude to the United Nations and Switzerland for convening the event and bringing the suffering of Yemenis to the UN agenda.
She appreciated the humanitarian partners for being at the forefront of relief missions under dangerous circumstances.
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