A meeting on Yemen was held in Berlin Wednesday in the absence of the legitimate government and Iran-backed Houthi militias.
The meeting was held away from the media spotlight and Asharq Al-Awsat learned that the Yemeni foreign ministry will issue a statement about the failure to coordinate with the government on holding the talks.
A government source said that the Germany was “carrying out unfriendly acts” against Yemen and its people by holding such a meeting.
The meeting was attended by German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, UN special envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths and UN Humanitarian Coordinator Lise Grande.
Asked by Asharq Al-Awsat about the failure to invite any of the warring parties, a German foreign ministry spokesman replied that the meeting brought together international partners, donors and main players for the purpose of supporting UN efforts and taking additional measures that would lead to a peace process.
Talks between the warring parties take place under the supervision of the UN envoy, who enjoys Berlin’s full support, he added.
The German move has, however, raised eyebrows among Yemeni diplomatic circles.
Other invitees at the talks included representatives of the European Union, Britain, the United States, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center.
Sources from the meeting told Asharq Al-Awsat that it did not propose any new ideas, but discussed the humanitarian situation in Yemen, Griffiths’ efforts and the recently reached Sweden agreement.
The gatherers agreed to support the Sweden deal, underlining the need for all sides to commit to it.
