The Saudi Ambassador to Yemen and Supervisor of the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen, Mohammed Al Jaber, affirmed that Saudi Arabia's sponsorship of the Southern Issue Conference held in Riyadh represents a pivotal step in resolving the Yemeni crisis. Al Jaber explained via his official account on the "X" platform that this initiative primarily aims to bring together all influential and active Southern figures and leaders, without any discrimination or exclusion of any party, in order to develop a unified and comprehensive vision for just solutions that address the Southern issue.
The Saudi ambassador indicated that this diplomatic move comes in response to the will and legitimate aspirations of the southern factions, and represents a cornerstone and necessary prelude to seriously addressing the southern issue at the comprehensive political dialogue table to end the conflict in Yemen. These statements reaffirm the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's continued commitment to supporting Yemen's stability and territorial integrity through consensus among all parties.
The courage to make a decision and prioritize the national interest
In a related context, Al Jaber praised the courageous decisions taken by the leaders of the Southern Transitional Council, describing their decision to engage in this process and dissolve the council as conclusive proof of their deep concern for the future of the southern cause, far removed from narrow personal interests. He affirmed that their choice of dialogue under the auspices and sponsorship of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a strategic option that will garner broad international support, both for holding the conference and for implementing its political outcomes later.
Historical context and pivotal role of the Kingdom
These developments are a continuation of the historical role played by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Yemeni conflict, particularly its previous efforts that culminated in the signing of the Riyadh Agreement in 2019, which aimed to unify ranks and consolidate efforts between the legitimate government and the Southern Transitional Council. The Kingdom recognizes that a just resolution to the Southern issue is essential for stabilizing the liberated governorates and unifying the domestic front to confront the economic and security challenges plaguing the country.
Regional and international dimensions of the event
The Southern Issue Conference in Riyadh holds immense importance that transcends its local dimension. The international community and the United Nations view the unification of southern factions as a crucial step toward advancing the comprehensive UN-led peace process. The success of this Saudi-sponsored conference will bolster the prospects for a final political agreement that ends the war, restores state institutions, and paves the way for the reconstruction and development phase that the Yemeni people so desperately await.
