ADEN, Yemen, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- The Yemeni government announced Sunday that Saudi Arabia has deposited 250 million U.S. dollars into the Central Bank of Yemen to help support the country's state budget.
This is the second installment of a 1.2-billion-dollar Saudi aid package announced in August 2023, the official Saudi Press Agency confirmed.
Yemen's Prime Minister Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak thanked the Saudi side for continuous assistance, Yemeni state-run Saba news reported.
He said the new payment would cover salaries, expenses, and food security, which underscored the kingdom's unwavering commitment to backing the Yemeni people and government.
The funds come at a critical time for Yemen, which has suffered from years of conflict that halted oil and gas exports, deteriorating economic conditions and a plunging currency.
Central Bank of Yemen Governor Ahmed Ghaleb verified receipt of the latest Saudi installment. The aid arrives just days after the appointment of a new Yemeni prime minister as the country continues political reforms.
Yemen's economy has spiraled down since the civil conflict erupted over nine years ago. The fighting led to suspended oil and gas exports, a crucial source of budgetary funding. The Yemeni currency has also cratered against foreign currencies. ■
