Yemen: EU concerned about attempts to derail transition

The European Union is ''deeply concerned by all attempts to derail the transition in Yemen." This statement is made in the conclusions of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the 27 countries, ahead of the upcoming meeting of ministers of the Friends of Yemen, planned on May 23 in Riyadh. The EU also asks all parties to abide by the undertakings set out in the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative, in good faith. According to Brussels, the new president Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi, ''has demonstrated his determination'' to implement the plan agreed with international partners and the EU. The EU is ''committed to assist him, exploring all available options to ensure compliance from any individuals who persist in undermining or opposing the political transition in Yemen." The EU foreign minister encourage President Hadi to ''rapidly take forward the national dialogue'', asking for the creation of a "fully inclusive Preparatory Committee, bringing in representatives from all strands of Yemeni society." Together with the other partners, the EU will ''continue to support the government in this crucial endeavour, as the basis for constitutional reforms and lasting reconciliation."