The Saudi-led Arab Coalition, which is backing Yemen’s legitimate government, stressed that the Riyadh Agreement serves as a bridge to the next phase awaited by Yemenis. It will unite ranks, restore normality to life and reinvigorate the economy.
Great efforts have been exerted by the coordination and political liaison team and the coalition command in Aden and have culminated in the separation of forces in Abyan and their withdrawal from Aden, coalition spokesman Colonel Turki al-Malki told Asharq Al-Awsat.
“There is no doubt that the implementation of the military part of the Riyadh Agreement, represented in separating the military forces in the Abyan governorate and their pullout from Aden, is a bridge to a future that Yemenis await,” he asserted.
He added that the Riyadh Agreement helps in achieving a normal life that is anchored in uniting ranks, ending military appearances and stimulating the economy.
The Riyadh Agreement was inked last year to ease tensions in southern Yemen between troops loyal to the legitimate government and the Southern Transitional Council (STC). The two sides are part of a coalition fighting the Iran-backed Houthis.
On Sunday, the Arab Coalition gave an update on progress made on implementing the military aspect of the agreement.
The process of separating the forces in Abyan and their exit from Aden was proceeding with “discipline and commitment” for a fourth day.
The Arab Coalition also said it “appreciates the commitment of the legitimate Yemeni government and the STC in implementing the military aspect of the deal.”
The two sides started withdrawing their forces on Friday from the southern province of Abyan, military officers from both sides said.
Last week, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al-Jaber, said the Riyadh Agreement would “fulfill peace, security and stability,” and the Yemeni people would “reap the fruits” of the agreement.
