Speech by Ambassador Patrick Simonnet on Europe Day – Aden, 12 May 2026

Read full speech of EU Ambassador to Yemen Patrick Simonnet delivered on Europe Day in Aden on 12 May 2026:

Your Excellency, Prime Minister Dr. Shaya Al Zindani, 

Your Excellencies, Ministers and State Minsters of the Government of Yemen, 

Ambassadors, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, 

It is an honour and a privilege to stand tonight in front of you to celebrate the European Union’s Day in Yemen’s temporary capital, the city of Aden. This is the first time since the beginning of the conflict that the European Union holds a reception to mark Europe’s Day with our partners and friends inside Yemen. And the first time ever to do it in the beautiful city of Aden. We believe this represents a strong message of support from the EU and its Member States to the internationally-recognised Government of Yemen and to his Prime Minister, Dr Al Zindani, as he embarks on a challenging process of stabilisation and reform. 

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, 

The European Union has continued to lend its full support to peace efforts in Yemen, and in particular those led by the UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and his office. We firmly believe that the only sustainable solution to the conflict can only be achieved through a political settlement negotiated by the parties. In this context, we have engaged with local, regional and international actors in pursuit of de-escalation and confidence-building measures in order to preserve a space for a possible resumption of negotiations. In addition to funding OSESGY, we have, for instance, supported track II initiatives aimed at bringing together local mediators and peace makers to explore how to unlock tangible benefits for Yemenis across frontlines. During my recent visit to Taiz I had the privilege of meeting many of them and I would like to commend their incredible work. We have also continued to fund the UN Inspection and Verification mechanism in Djibouti as a way to reduce the flow of illicit goods going into Houhti-controlled ports but also as a measure to press the other party in returning to the negotiating table. 

I know many are deeply skeptical of this approach. But in our experience as Europeans, even the worst enemies can one day sit down at the negotiating table and agree, not only on the terms of peace, but also on a way forward to build a future together. This is what France and Germany did after a devasting conflict that cost more than 75 million deaths all over the world. The European Union is willing to increase its direct engagement in facilitating the different parties’ return to dialogue in order to reach an inclusive political settlement. It is essential to raise awareness among the international community on the need to bring peace to Yemen. This is not only a humanitarian an political imperative, but also a strategic one. Stability in the Red Sea region can only be achieved if Yemen is stable and at peace with itself. 

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, 

We have welcomed the establishment of a new Yemeni Government, led by His Excellency the Prime Minister. We were encouraged by the inclusiveness of the Cabinet and the appointment of three female ministers for the first time. I have met several ministers and I am impressed by their determination to pursue the reform agenda laid out by the Prime Minister. The European Union and its Member States praise the efforts and the work carried out by the Prime Minister and his Government, including the adoption of a state budget for the first time in the last 7 years, in addressing the most pressing challenges that Yemenis face. Moreover, a more cohesive, united Government camp is also essential for a resumption of peace efforts. Allow me therefore to reiterate that the European Union and its Member States will continue to encourage members of the PLC to show unity of purpose at this critical juncture for the country. Here, I would like to reiterate our firm commitment to supporting the Yemeni Government diplomatically, politically and technically. In February this year, HE the President met with the HRVP Kaja Kallas and they both stressed the need to intensify our bilateral relations across sectors. Other high-level engagements have also taken place, including the meeting between HE the Prime Minister and the EUSR for the Gulf Luigi di Maio. As for myself, I have already travelled extensively in Yemen to show our support. I was in Aden to present my credentials to HE the President two days only after my appointment in September 2025. Since then, I have been to Aden several times, but also had the privilege of visiting Al Mukalla, Seyoun, Shibam, Taiz and several districts in Al Maafer and Jebel Habashi. Moreover, the EU has continued to assist in reinforcing Yemeni institutions. We have been supporting the Yemeni Coast Guard, for instance, but also the Central Bank of Yemen. We are currently in discussions with our Member States to expand this institutional support. 

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, 

The European Union stands as one of Yemen’s largest developmental and humanitarian partners. True, Yemen continues to be a country in crisis. Millions of Yemenis are still receiving humanitarian aid, and the EU has continued providing this support through its interventions, including regular humanitarian air bridges into the country. The EU will continue assisting those in need, regardless of where they are in Yemen. But to do so, we need a conducive operating environment. Our partners cannot be intimated, or worse still, harrassed and detained. This is what has happened in Houthi-controlled areas for several years now, and which has, rightly so, triggered an exodus of UN agencies and partners. We have called repeteadly for the release of all those humanitarian workers detained and we reiterate that call now. 

In the field of development assistance, which we have concentrated in GoY areas, we have three main priorities: economic development and job creation, resilient communities, and peace and security. Central to this approach is the humanitarian-development-peace nexus, which in essence means that we need to assist local communities to emerge from their dependence on aid towards greater self-reliance and sustainable development. The projects include the set up of Local Economic Councils in cities like Taiz, support to young Yemeni creators in Mukalla and Aden, rehabilitation of clinics, roads, irrigation canals and schools, the provision of small grants to vulnerable communities, supporting organisations that promote the respect of human rights and accountability or the restoration of cultural heritage, among many others. This work would not be possible without our partners, in particular the UN and its different agencies, as well as our local colleagues. 

Here, allow me to pay homage to Wisam Qaid, the late Director ad interm of the SFD. Wisam was not only a friend of the EU, but also an amazing person and a tremendous asset for Yemen and its people. He left his life in the UK and decided to return to Yemen to lead development work and change people’s lives. I have witnessed myself that change on the ground. It is remarkable. We need more Wisams. His assassination was a coward, despicable act that we have condemned. I am sure that law enforcement agencies will catch the perpetrators and bring them to justice. But ley me say this. If the goal was to deter us from supporting the Government, its institutions and the Yemeni people, Wisam’s killing has only reinforced our determination and our resolve. 

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, 

I would like to conclude my speech in praise of the Yemeni people. I have been around for a few years, and I have never seen people as resilient, warm and hospitable as the Yemenis. They are proud ambassadors of this ancient land, full of richness and promise, of what the Romans used to call ‘Arabia Felix’. From the Sabaean Kingdom a thousand years before our era, to the arrival of Islam and Yemen’s contribution to this great civilization, to our modern days. I am reading books from Yemeni authors, visiting its incredible architectural wonders, and tasting its unique food (Fahsa and Bint Assahin being my favourites so far). And my team and I are looking forward to strengthen our partnership and accompany our Yemeni friends in their quest for prosperity and peace. 

Thank you, Long Live Yemen, long live the European Union!