ADEN, Yemen, April 9 (Xinhua) -- Hans Grundberg, the United Nations special envoy for Yemen, concluded a visit to Aden on Thursday after holding meetings with senior Yemeni officials on peace prospects and economic and security challenges.
In a statement, Grundberg said he met with Presidential Leadership Council member Mahmoud Al-Subaihi and Prime Minister Shaya Zindani to discuss the impact of recent regional and domestic developments on Yemen's fragile situation.
"The discussions focused on regional escalation and its impact on Yemen, as well as internal developments," Grundberg said, stressing the need to stabilize conditions in southern governorates.
The envoy, who arrived in Aden on Monday, also provided an update on negotiations between Yemen's government and the Houthi group over conflict-related detainees, highlighting continued diplomatic efforts under United Nations auspices.
Economic issues featured prominently. In meetings with Finance Minister Marwan Bin Ghanem and Oil and Minerals Minister Mohammed Bamaqa, discussions focused on financial stabilization and recovery measures. Grundberg said the government's economic priorities, including adoption of the 2026 budget and strategic plan, were central, and stressed the importance of resuming fuel production and exports.
In a separate meeting with Minister of State for Women's Affairs Ahed Jasoos, Grundberg emphasized inclusive participation, including meaningful engagement of women in political and public decision-making, stronger social and legal protections, and economic empowerment.
In all meetings, Grundberg reiterated the need to shield Yemen from regional tensions and maintain momentum toward a Yemeni-led political settlement under UN auspices.
Yemen has been engulfed in conflict since 2014, when Houthi forces seized control of the capital, Sanaa, and much of the country's north, prompting a Saudi-led coalition to intervene in 2015 in support of the internationally recognized government. The war has created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, leaving millions facing food insecurity and lacking access to basic services. ■
