Reem Al Hashemy lauds ERC efforts in Yemen

Minister of State for International Co-operation says it is an exemplary model of humanitarian work

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has stressed it will continue to provide humanitarian and development assistance to the people of Yemen. The National
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Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Co-operation, has praised the humanitarian efforts of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) in alleviating the hardships of various vulnerable people and communities who are suffering at the hands of the Houthi militias.

Ms Al Hashemy stated that the ERC’s efforts in Yemen have become an exemplary model of humanitarian work – which she said has had an effective and rapid impact – while praising the organisation’s efficient field workers who are operating in a challenging and unsafe environment.

She explained that the continuous follow-up of ERC chairman Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his unwavering support of the organisation’s leadership and teams, in addition to the expertise and determination of the organisation’s staff, have contributed to saving lives, easing the burdens of the Yemeni people, and restoring a sense of social security.

During her visit to the interim Yemeni capital, Aden, on Tuesday, the minister observed a number of projects being implemented by the ERC and its ‘Year of Zayed’ initiatives. She was briefed on the plans of food distribution and relief aid in Aden and neighbouring governorates such as Lahej, Abyan, Dhale and Taiz, as well as the province of Hodeidah.

Ms Al Hashemy was also briefed on the ERC's completed projects which focused on the rehabilitation of vital sectors and services in health, education, sanitation, energy and the environment. as well as restoration of the country's infrastructure, including roads, ports and airports. The minister was also informed of the financial support provided to various government institutions and their enhanced capability, such as in safety and security.

The minister praised the efforts to expand the capacity of Aden port, which is now able to absorb more commercial and humanitarian imports.

Ms Al Hashemy said she was very impressed by the ERC's field efforts, and she praised the teams on the ground, whom she said were a source of pride for the UAE and its charitable institutions who have supported the mission.

She added that they have followed the path of the country’s wise leadership to support friendly countries and populations, and to leave its mark in the field of humanitarian work.

Ms Al Hashemy said the UAE will not hesitate to provide all the support necessary to Yemen so that it can enjoy security, stability and prosperity. She added that the UAE will work with regional and international partners to push for a political solution in Yemen, but until this is achieved, it will provide humanitarian support.

The UAE has provided Dh1.7 billion to support the United Nations Humanitarian Response Plan in Yemen for 2018, while total UAE assistance to Yemen from April 2015 to June 2018 amounted to more than Dh13.9bn.

The UAE has also implemented several projects in Yemen, in partnership with international organisations such as the World Food Programme, the World Health Organisation, UNICEF and the International Committee of the Red Cross. It also continues its permanent and effective coordination with the United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs.