Saudi Arabia announces one-month ceasefire extension in Yemen

Saudi Arabia announces one-month extension of ceasefire in Yemen

According to the Gulf Times, Col. Turki al-Maliki, a spokesman for the Saudi-led Arab League, said that after the declaration of a ceasefire on April 8, 2020, a ceasefire has now been established in Yemen by UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy Martin Griffiths. The ceasefire is being extended by one month in response to the request of the Taliban.

He said that we fully support the initiative of dialogue between the parties together with the United Nations.

Colonel Turki al-Maliki clarified that negotiations are underway for a permanent ceasefire, agreements on economic and humanitarian measures and the resumption of the political process.

He also said that the coalition forces are serious about alleviating the suffering of the Yemeni people. "We are considering taking steps to fight the virus in Yemen and prevent it," al-Maliki said.

The Coalition spokesman reiterated that there is still the possibility of a concerted effort to reach a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire in Yemen and to end the suffering of the Yemeni brothers and to take direct and concrete steps.

"We will work with the United Nations to fully support all basic steps to reach a just and comprehensive political solution with the consent of all Yemenis," he said. Earlier, on April 8, the Arab League extended the ceasefire. Yemen has declared a two-week ceasefire.

Al-Maliki said this was an opportunity to join the efforts for a comprehensive and lasting peace in Yemen.The declaration of a ceasefire was welcomed by all countries.

UN chief Antonio Guterres has said "this could help move peace efforts forward, as well as the country's response to the corona virus."