Discurso do Representante Permanente Alterno, Embaixador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, em reunião do Conselho de Segurança sobre o Iêmen - 17 de maio de 2023 (texto em inglês)

Madam President,

I would like to begin by expressing our gratitude to the Mr. Grundberg for his insightful remarks and for his tireless efforts in favor of the future of Yemen on behalf of the international community. His commitment and dedication to fostering peace, stability, and development in a nation grappling with multifaceted crises is truly commendable.

I also thank Ms. Edem Wosornu for her informative briefing and by the work that herself and her office have done in Yemen. I welcome to this meeting the delegation of Yemen. And my delegation takes note of the briefing by the representative of the civil society.

Madam President,

Yemen is at a pivotal moment. The ongoing conversations with the parties involved, spearheaded by Special Envoy Grundberg, hold significant promise. Coupled with the Saudi-Houthi talks facilitated by Oman, they exemplify the power of diplomacy as a catalyst for better days. They also serve as a reminder that, even in the most challenging of circumstances, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding can pave the way towards peace. We must continue to support these efforts.

Brazil echoes the call made by Special Envoy Grundberg during his recent visit to Sana'a. Any cease-fire agreement must not merely be a document but should translate into tangible benefits for all Yemenis.

This includes ensuring more destinations and flights to and from Sana'a airport, a critical lifeline for a nation in dire need. It also means the resumption of the country's oil exports, an essential component of Yemen's economy and a key factor in its recovery. Additionally, the opening of key roads in Taiz and other governorates is vital to facilitating the free movement of goods and people, fostering economic revival and social cohesion. Such developments are essential not only for easing the current humanitarian crisis but also for paving the path to long-lasting stability.

Even in the absence of large-scale hostilities, the situation in Yemen remains one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world, with two-thirds of the Yemeni population in need of assistance. We urge all relevant authorities to ensure freedom of movement and access to all humanitarian agents on the ground. It is not just a question of safeguarding the delivery of humanitarian aid but also a matter of upholding the principles of human rights and dignity. Millions of men, women, and children depend on urgent and vital assistance, and we must ensure that all the necessary aid reaches them without hindrance.

We also take this opportunity to address the urgent task of salvaging the Safer oil tanker. Brazil commends the dedication shown by the United Nations and all donors in bringing this operation closer to fruition. This initiative is not just about preventing an environmental catastrophe; it is about averting a crisis that could compound the already severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen.

Lastly, in our discussions about peace and stability in Yemen, the goal of spurring development must not be lost. Sustainable peace requires a thriving economy and opportunities for all. Initiatives that empower the people of Yemen, especially women and youth, including through education and employment opportunities, are decisive. A strong Yemeni society, with resilient institutions and a functioning economy, is key for sustaining peace in the country.

As we continue to strive for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Yemen, Brazil fully supports the promotion of dialogue and cooperation. In navigating this path together, we are confident that, with our collective efforts, we can help Yemen overcome its difficult challenges and achieve peace, development and prosperity.

And I thank you.