In a significant media and political event, the Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper will broadcast this evening, Wednesday, February 11, an exclusive and lengthy interview with the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Yemen, Dr. Shaya Mohsen Al-Zindani. This interview, conducted by Saudi journalist Bader Al-Qahtani, a specialist in Yemeni affairs, aims to clarify the Yemeni government's vision for the priorities of the current phase, amidst local and regional anticipation for the Prime Minister's answers and the clarifications he will provide on sensitive issues.

Critical timing and complex issues

This interview is of exceptional importance given the delicate circumstances Yemen is facing, where economic and service-related issues are intertwined with security and political challenges. Dr. Al-Zindani's remarks come at a time when Yemeni and international circles are eager to understand the government's new approach to addressing the devaluation of the national currency, the weakness of basic services, and the urgent need to restore citizens' trust in state institutions. The meeting is expected to provide an in-depth analysis of the government's mechanisms for advancing economic recovery, which is considered the cornerstone of the country's stability at this stage.

Meeting topics: From services to diplomacy

In a special episode of "Al Sharq Al Awsat Podcast," recorded at Al Sharq TV studios at the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG) headquarters in the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, the discussion covers key topics including:

• Improving basic services: The government has urgent plans to provide electricity, water and health services to citizens.
• Institutional reform: Enhancing the efficiency of government institutions and raising the level of coordination between different state agencies to ensure smooth workflow.
• The political and diplomatic track: Discussing Yemen’s diplomatic presence in international forums and the prospects for a comprehensive political solution.

Governance and standards for government formation

During the interview, the Prime Minister addressed, with transparency, the general principles governing the formation of the government, highlighting the mechanisms for selecting ministerial portfolios that ensure efficiency and balance. The discussion also focused on the priorities of the immediate phase related to activating governance and accountability mechanisms—essential steps to guarantee transparency and combat corruption, thus paving the way for restoring the effectiveness of sovereign and service-oriented state institutions.

Security, stability, and relief challenges

On the security front, Dr. Al-Zindani addressed security matters, military coordination, and efforts to establish stability in the liberated governorates, in addition to the general direction of foreign policy. The meeting also touched on the humanitarian aspect, with the Prime Minister discussing the significant humanitarian challenges facing the Yemeni people and ways to facilitate the delivery of aid to those in need, given the current complexities on the ground.

His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, arrived today (Wednesday) in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, on an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and discussing issues of common interest between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

His Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs is scheduled to hold extensive talks with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali. The meeting will address the latest developments in the region, as well as review international and regional efforts to achieve security and stability, particularly in the Horn of Africa, which faces multiple geopolitical challenges requiring ongoing coordination among key players.

The dimensions of the visit and its important timing

This visit is particularly significant given its timing, as the region witnesses intensive diplomatic efforts aimed at defusing crises and bolstering peace prospects. Saudi Arabia views Ethiopia as a crucial strategic partner on the African continent, considering its significant population, political influence, and strategic geographic location. These initiatives align with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes deepening partnerships with African nations, a commitment clearly demonstrated in recent Saudi-African summits focused on economic and security cooperation.

Saudi-Ethiopian relations and Red Sea security

Historically, Riyadh and Addis Ababa have enjoyed long-standing relations, and both countries play a pivotal role in the security of the Red Sea, a vital artery for global trade. The talks are expected to address ways to secure waterways and enhance cooperation in combating terrorism and transnational threats. The Sudanese issue is also likely to be on the agenda, given the geographical proximity, the Kingdom's role in mediating a solution to the Sudanese crisis, and its direct impact on stability in Ethiopia and neighboring countries.

Promoting regional stability

Saudi diplomacy, under the leadership of Prince Faisal bin Farhan, seeks to build bridges of understanding and constructive dialogue to resolve regional disputes peacefully. Ethiopia, as the headquarters of the African Union, serves as a key gateway for diplomatic efforts on the continent. Therefore, Saudi-Ethiopian coordination not only benefits both countries but also extends its impact to strengthening collective security in East Africa and the Arab region, thus opening broader horizons for developmental and economic cooperation that serves all the peoples of the region.