[25/January/2010]

STRASBOURG, Jan. 25 (Saba) - Al Qaeda in Yemen is an accidental matter that basically comes as a result of the country's economic, political and security problems, currently drawing the world's attention, a senior EU official has said, urging the Yemeni government to exert more efforts in the best interest of its people.

The remarks of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Common and Foreign Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, followed EU statements that the bloc was considering raising its aid to Yemen by 33 percent over 2011-2013.

Ashton said Britain's call for a Yemen summit scheduled for later this week came on time and would provide a good opportunity to engage Saudi Arabia, the U.S. and other countries to discuss Yemen and how to help the country.

Yemen's security would be high on the agenda and preparations got underway for a package of related aid including intensified training for Yemeni forces and providing them with necessary equipment as well as supporting the government's efforts to improve laws to confront extremism and tackle conflicts, she said.

But any aid to Yemen can't replace the Yemeni government's commitment to assume its responsibilities, she said, urging donors to continue providing further aid to Yemen.

We have become aware why Yemen is now on our agenda…..that is after the botched attack on a U.S.-bound passenger jet on Christmas Day, hence, our nations are in danger unless we support a country like Yemen, said Ashton in an EP sitting on Sunday.

It is true that terrorism is the present concern of Yemen but it is also true that Yemen is suffering from other major problems including rebellion in the far north, revolt in the south, maritime piracy and population growth, she said.

'Yemen has already done its best to keep stability in general and this must be hailed. But with the sharp decline in oil revenues the country is struggling to keep control of parts on its soil.'

She concluded that the EU has put Yemen as a priority over the next 18 months in regard of fighting terror and has already adopted a comprehensive development strategy to help Yemen.

FR
Saba