STC Foreign Affairs Discusses Enhancing Cooperation with ICRC

Dr. Saleh Mohsen Al-Haj, head of the Foreign Affairs Authority of the Southern Transitional Council (STC), met on Monday at the authority's headquarters in the capital, Aden, with the Director of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) mission, Mr. Mahmoud Abu Hussiba, and was accompanied by the mission's Political Adviser, Mr. Bahaa Al-Sallami, to explore ways to enhance cooperation and coordination to support the humanitarian response in the South.

The meeting, attended by Dr. Najib Qayid, Director of the International Organizations and Human Rights Department at the Affairs Authority, reviewed the humanitarian conditions and existing challenges amidst the exceptional circumstances the country is experiencing. It further discussed the role undertaken by the ICRC in delivering humanitarian aid and protecting the most vulnerable groups.

Dr. Al-Haj reaffirmed the STC's commitment to providing a safe and conducive environment for the work of international humanitarian organizations, including the ICRC, and highlighted the necessity of respecting international humanitarian law and engaging in positive, responsible cooperation with efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering of citizens, especially in conflict areas.

Furthermore, Dr. Al-Haj noted that the security measures taken in certain areas fall within the framework of maintaining security and stability and protecting civilians. At the same time, he affirmed the Council's openness to cooperating with all international and local human rights and humanitarian organizations in a manner that enhances the principles of transparency and accountability.

For his part, Mr. Abu Abu Hussiba appreciated the STC's facilitation of the ICRC's work and ongoing coordination and cooperation to ensure that humanitarian interventions are directed at the most urgent priorities and effectively meet the needs of citizens.