In a statement to the agency today, Wednesday, he explained that regionally and internationally, after showing openness to Arab and Gulf capitals, Moscow is now expanding its communication circle. This is particularly as Russia plays an increasing role in the Yemeni issue and seeks to be an influential mediator in the upcoming political arrangements.
Saleh said: “The agenda of the visit will include presenting the Southern Transitional Council’s vision for a comprehensive solution in Yemen, particularly regarding the south’s status and its right to determine its political future, alongside discussions on Russian political and economic support for the southern regions, in light of historical ties between the south and the former Soviet Union. The visit will also address issues of counter-terrorism and the security of the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab, which hold strategic interest for Russia.”
Regarding the capacity in which Al-Zubaidi traveled to Moscow, Saleh noted: “We in the Transitional Council see no difference between the roles. The representation of the Southern Transitional Council in the Presidential Leadership Council signifies representation for the people of the south and its political project. The composition of the delegation accompanying the president, which includes council leaders who do not hold state positions, confirms that the visit is conducted in this capacity, without negating his role in the Leadership Council and his commitment to finding a just solution to the conflict in Yemen and the issue of the southern people. This was evident in the Russian media’s coverage, which focused on the south and the Transitional Council’s stance.”
Saleh pointed out that “President Al-Zubaidi’s visit to Moscow is expected to enhance the international presence of the Transitional Council and grant it indirect political recognition. It will also contribute to reopening historical channels between the south and Russia, especially as it comes at a sensitive time in preparation for any forthcoming political settlement to ensure the south’s voice is present and strong in negotiations.”
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website reported yesterday, Tuesday, that on October 21, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov received the Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council of the Republic of Yemen, the Chairman of the Southern Transitional Council, who is visiting Moscow. During the meeting, mutual commitment to further strengthening traditionally friendly Russian-Yemeni relations was confirmed. The importance of continuing to develop multifaceted cooperation in trade, economic, and humanitarian fields was emphasized. Special attention was given to the development of the situation in Yemen and related issues, highlighting the need to start a broad national dialogue under the auspices of the United Nations as soon as possible, aiming to reach compromises on existing problems and bring closer the viewpoints of the conflicting Yemeni parties.
