Yemen’s national dialogue ‘historic’ opportunity to build better future – Ban

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the launch today of the national dialogue conference in Yemen, which he said represents a “historic” opportunity for the people of the country to contribute to its development and prosperity.

The national dialogue conference will feed into a constitution-making process, and pave the way for general elections to be held in 2014. It is part of the democratic transition that has been under way in Yemen under the leadership of President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi, following protests similar to those that occurred in other countries that were part of the ‘Arab Spring’.

“The Yemeni people have chosen the path of peaceful dialogue and reconciliation,” said a statement issued by Mr. Ban’s spokesperson.

“The dialogue represents a historic opportunity for the Yemeni people, including women and youth. It will allow them to come together to resolve grievances and to build trust, ensure justice, promote human rights and contribute to the country’s development and prosperity.”

Mr. Ban is gratified that the national dialogue was prepared in a “constructive, participatory and comprehensive” fashion, the statement noted.

He commended President Hadi, the Government of National Unity and the people of Yemen for “their determination and wisdom in keeping the transition process on track against many odds.”

The Secretary-General’s Special Adviser on Yemen, Jamal Benomar, and his team, remain fully engaged with all sides in support of the national dialogue, and will continue to work closely with all partners to help the transition succeed, the statement added.