Singapore hails UN's call for Yemen negotiations

Singapore's Foreign Ministry said on Friday that it welcomes and supports the call by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon for all parties to the conflict in Yemen to return to political negotiations.

The ministry said it has been making arrangements, in some cases in close collaboration with other foreign governments to facilitate the departure of Singaporeans, but the efforts will depend on the "unpredictable" ground conditions.

According to the World Health Organization, at least 560 people, including dozens of children, were killed and 1,768 others wounded, while over 10,000 residents fled major cities in Yemen since the start of Saudi-led air strikes against the Houthi rebels in last March.

With the assistance of the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS), the ministry is working to facilitate the return of 60 Singaporeans, including students and families, who are currently in conflict-ridden Yemen.

The ministry said it remains deeply concerned for the safety of Singaporeans in Yemen, especially those who have not left despite repeated calls for them to do so, adding that it will nonetheless continue to remain in close contact with them.