Yemeni Government Discusses Customs Exemptions and Economic Improvements with UN Officials

On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, Yemen's internationally recognized Minister of Finance, Salem bin Buraik, held separate meetings with UN officials to discuss customs exemptions and improving economic and financial conditions.

The meetings, held in Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen, included discussions with Reihana Zawar, Director of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Yemen, and Dirk Jan, Economic Advisor to the UN Special Envoy to Yemen.

According to the official Yemeni News Agency Saba, bin Buraik and Zawar discussed enhancing cooperation and coordination, particularly regarding customs exemptions. They also reviewed the implementation of UNOPS interventions in various sectors in Yemen during the current challenging phase, in accordance with existing legal regulations.

During the meeting, the Minister of Finance emphasized the ministry's commitment to providing necessary facilitation and overcoming obstacles faced by international organizations working in the country to ensure the successful implementation of their interventions and achieve their intended goals, primarily benefiting the community.

Bin Buraik stressed the importance of adhering to procedures and laws related to customs exemptions for UNOPS interventions.

UNOPS is an operational arm of the United Nations that supports the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects for its partners worldwide. It provides project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to governments, donors, and UN agencies.

In his meeting with the UN Special Envoy's Economic Advisor, bin Buraik discussed the latest developments in the difficult economic and financial situation and the continued aggressive practices and economic warfare by the Houthis, including targeting international navigation.

The meeting also addressed the Houthis' financial division and their prevention of crude oil exports, which constitute about 70% of the state's general budget, for over two years.

According to the official agency, the meeting with the UN official reviewed the government's efforts, within available resources, to address economic and financial challenges, develop economic resources, and combat corruption.

The minister affirmed the government's commitment to continuing intensified efforts, supported by friendly and donor countries, to advance the comprehensive reform program, fulfill essential commitments, and mitigate the worsening economic, financial, humanitarian, living, and service conditions.

The UN official expressed appreciation for the government's efforts to improve general conditions, particularly in the economic and financial sectors and services provided to citizens.