Amman:Yemen and Jordan have decided to activate political consultations between their foreign ministries and are preparing for the 15th session of their Joint Higher Committee, aiming to enhance cooperation in several key sectors. This was announced by Yemeni Foreign and Expatriates Minister Afrah Zouba.
According to the Jordan News Agency, Zouba emphasized the enduring ties between the two nations and their shared commitment to fortify coordination in response to rapidly changing regional dynamics and the challenges Yemen faces. The political consultations will commence under a memorandum of understanding signed in 2022, with preparations underway for the next meeting of the Joint Higher Committee.
Zouba's discussions with Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and Expatriates Affairs Ayman Safadi included updates on the situation in Yemen and the impacts of regional tensions on security and international navigation. She lauded Jordan's support in various sectors such as politics, economy, health, and education, and its role in capacity-building and strengthening Yemeni state institutions.
The focus areas for expanded cooperation include health, higher education, training, and capacity-building, as well as private sector investment. Jordan is a key medical destination for Yemenis, and efforts are underway to enhance medical referrals and access to treatments. The two countries are discussing renewing their higher education program and increasing university placements and scholarships, while also leveraging Jordanian expertise in training Yemeni government personnel.
Zouba highlighted the need for practical programs with outlined timelines, budgets, and follow-up mechanisms through the political consultations and the Joint Higher Committee. For Yemenis residing in Jordan, the Yemeni Embassy in Amman is working with local authorities to address residency and status-related issues.
Regarding regional security developments, Zouba affirmed Yemen's dedication to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, noninterference in their affairs, and civilian protection. She expressed solidarity with Jordan and other Arab nations whose sovereignty has been compromised.
Addressing priorities in Yemen, Zouba identified urgent needs such as salaries, food, medicine, electricity, and water, alongside the challenges posed by displacement due to the Houthi militia's military actions. Nearly 200,000 new displacements have been recorded since July, increasing the need for emergency support for these families and host communities.
The Yemeni government is implementing a cost-of-living allowance and measures for salary adjustments. Zouba stressed the necessity for humanitarian aid and support for state institutions from Arab countries and the international community, highlighting a significant funding gap in this year's humanitarian response plan.
On the Palestinian issue, Zouba reiterated Yemen's support for Palestinian rights, including self-determination and the establishment of an independent state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. She praised Jordan's role and King Abdullah II's custodianship of Jerusalem's holy sites and efforts to maintain their historical and legal status.