In a gesture of appreciation reflecting the Saudi leadership’s close monitoring of events in Yemen and its concern for the humanitarian aspect, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defense, sent a letter of thanks and appreciation to Engineer Salem Basamir, Director of the Port of Mukalla, commending his heroic role in protecting lives and property.
Details of the Defense Minister's praise
Through his official account on the social media platform "X," His Highness the Minister of Defense emphasized the importance of the role played by Engineer Basamir, describing it as "heroic and humanitarian." His Highness tweeted: "I thank Engineer Salem Basamir, Director of the Port of Mukalla, for his heroic and humanitarian role in ensuring the safety and preservation of lives and property at the port." This direct praise highlights the efficiency of the port's management in handling emergencies, prioritizing humanitarian considerations and the safety of employees and visitors above all else.
The strategic importance of the port of Mukalla
The port of Mukalla occupies a vital strategic location as the main maritime gateway for Hadramawt Governorate and neighboring areas in eastern Yemen. Its role extends beyond mere trade; it serves as a lifeline for the arrival of humanitarian aid, relief supplies, and fuel. Therefore, maintaining the safety of this vital facility and ensuring its continued efficient and secure operation is fundamental to the stability of the region and to meeting the needs of Yemeni citizens.
Significance of Saudi appreciation and its impact
The thanks expressed by His Highness the Minister of Defense carry profound implications that go beyond diplomatic courtesies, as they emphasize the following points:
- Depth of relations: This position reflects the depth of the fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Yemen, and the Kingdom’s interest in supporting loyal Yemeni national cadres.
- Humanitarian priority: The focus on "saving lives" highlights the coalition's and its leadership's firm belief that human safety is the top priority in all operations.
- Supporting stability: This recognition is a great moral incentive for all officials and employees in Yemeni institutions to exert more effort in order to restore state institutions and preserve their capabilities.
The general context of Saudi support for Yemen
This incident comes within the context of the ongoing support provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to its brotherly neighbor, Yemen, on all military, political, and developmental levels. Since the liberation of Mukalla from the grip of terrorist organizations, the Kingdom, through the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, has played a pivotal role in rehabilitating the port and enhancing its operational efficiency, thus contributing to boosting trade and facilitating the flow of essential imports to the Yemeni people.


