Egypt FM expresses demn concern over Yemen situation

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry has expressed deep concern on the Houthi takeover in Yemen. However, in an official statement, ministry spokesperson Badr Abdelatty called on respecting the Yemenis’ will in achieving their legal democratic aspirations.
He added there should a political resolution instead of escalating the violence, to respect the National Democratic Conference outcomes and implement the Gulf initiative agreement.
On Friday, the rebel Shi’a Houthis who took over the capital Sanaa in September and occupied the presidential palace in January, announced a new constitutional declaration.
Mohamed Aly Al-Houthi, head of the revolutionary committee announced from the presidential palace in Sanaa the articles of the new declaration, effective for two years from the day of announcement.
The declaration articles stated that a national council will be formed of 551 members, taking over from the previous outlawed parliament. Another council of five members will be formed to run the presidency, with members to be elected by the national council.
Following the resignation of Yemeni president Mansour Abd Rabou Hadi, along with his cabinet, the declaration also announced forming a new interim government.
“This step is historic and important to fill the gaps made by the regime resignation,” said Abdel Malik Al-Houthi on Sunday, via the group’s exclusive TV channel Almasirah.
He added the constitution sets clear political standards that fit all Yemeni affiliations and the new parliament will include representative calibres, and implement the outcomes of the peace and partnership agreement.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry is reportedly raising the Yemen issue for discussion among world ministers, on the sidelines of the International Security Conference held in Munich. He is also making several phone calls on the regional level, especially with counterparts in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).