ISTANBUL 

Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman said Wednesday that the kingdom will continue supporting Yemen politically and economically, following talks with Rashad al-Alimi, head of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council.

Prince Khalid said on the US social media company X that he was pleased to meet Alimi, members of the council, Prime Minister Salem Saleh bin Buraik, and Aden Governor Abdulrahman Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Yafei.

The discussions covered the fraternal relations between the two countries, developments in Yemen, and efforts aimed at ending the Yemeni crisis through a comprehensive political settlement that ensures security and stability, he added.

The Saudi minster underscored the importance of continuing work on the future of the southern issue through a conference to be hosted by Riyadh to advance a comprehensive vision for fair solutions.

Prince Khaled stressed that Saudi Arabia will maintain its support by providing economic assistance and rolling out development projects and programs across Yemen’s governorates.

He said the support reflects Riyadh’s commitment to strengthening security and stability and contributing to a better future for Yemen and its people.

Saudi Arabia plays a central role in backing Yemen’s internationally recognized government, while sponsoring dialogue initiatives aimed at supporting Yemen’s unity, stability, and state institutions.

On Jan. 3, Saudi Arabia invited all southern Yemeni components to take part in a conference it will host to develop a comprehensive framework for fair solutions to the southern issue.