Lusaka

25 February 2012

Readout of Secretary-General's telephone call with the President of Yemen

Ban Ki-Moon, Former Secretary-General

The Secretary-General spoke by telephone with H.E Mr. Abbed Rabbo Mansour Hadi today to congratulate him on being sworn in by Parliament as the new President of the Republic of Yemen.

The Secretary-General told the newly elected President that the overwhelming turnout of voters, including young people who came out in large numbers, was a clear indication of the country’s support for his leadership and for the peaceful transition.

He said he was aware Yemen was facing many difficult challenges but he was confident the country could move forward.

The Secretary-General thanked the President for his appreciation of the work done by the United Nations, led by Special Adviser Jamal Benomar, to support the political transition.

The Secretary-General said he was committed to strengthening the UN presence and engagement on the ground, working closely with regional and international partners to increase support to Yemen