Statement by Mr. Paul Teesalu, Deputy Minister,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Estonia
High-Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen
26 February 2019
Dear Excellences, colleagues,
Allow me to thank the United Nations and Governments of Switzerland and Sweden for organizing this pledging conference. The four-year conflict in Yemen has resulted in the worst humanitarian crisis accompanied with wide-scale displacement, famine and human suffering which cannot be ignored.
Estonia is deeply concerned about the severe impact the crisis has had on the population. Lack of protection, deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure has resulted in the collapse of economy. The conflict has triggered food insecurity and acute malnutrition.
We acknowledge the utmost role of the humanitarian organizations to provide emergency services and food assistance. Moreover, we appreciate the particular attention to the most vulnerable groups as children and women. Humanitarian response is critical to save lives, but it cannot provide long-term solutions. Before the international community can support the efforts to rebuild the devastated land – provide Yemeni children access to schools and healthcare services, build roads and housing, restore hope and future – peace is needed in Yemen.
In this regard, Estonia welcomes the “Stockholm Agreement” between the representatives of the Yemen parties under the auspices of the United Nations in December 2018. Only a political solution can end the conflict in Yemen. Parties need to respect the agreement and the international humanitarian law and start with the implemenation. The establishment of the United Nations mission supports the Hodeidah Agreement.
Estonia is committed to alleviate the suffering of people in Yemen and continues supporting humanitarian organizations. Today Estonia pledges 50 000 euros through the World Food Programme in order to alleviate the alarming food insecurity in Yemen.
Thank you.