The head of the European Union Delegation to Yemen Patrick Simonnet said that the EU is committed to supporting the United Nations led peace process for Yemen and is looking for tangible progress on the UN roadmap that would revive serious political engagement.
Simonnet told Asharq Al-Awsat that the European strategy centers on backing the Yemeni internationally recognized government and the Presidential Leadership Council, enabling both to provide essential services that restore public confidence and credibility.
He added that Yemen is a diverse country with multiple viewpoints, and that this is understandable. However, he believes the moment calls for political unity and joint action focused on national interests.
On whether the EU has been lenient with the Houthis or plans to designate the group as a terrorist organization, he stressed that Brussels is not showing any leniency and never has. He explains that EU institutions are holding internal discussions on various available options and that the overall priority remains bringing the parties back to the negotiating table.
Simonnet said his presence in Riyadh is part of ongoing and constructive talks with Saudi partners. He notes that both sides have a very close view of developments in Yemen and the Red Sea and that the current period requires a collective approach to address these issues.
He declined to go into details on whether the EU is currently in contact with the Houthis, saying only that all parties clearly understand the EU’s positions, which are announced publicly. He adds that the EU has multiple tools to support peace efforts, through diplomatic channels and other means, and that all options remain on the table.
He said the EU has provided one billion euros in humanitarian and development support since 2015. The assistance goes beyond relief to include economic activities, including microfinance in Hadramout and reopening export markets for fish, onions, dates and other products.
Simonnet concluded that talk of a window for peace remains valid, expressing cautious optimism. He stresses that if peace is the goal, all parties must work toward it, and both the United Nations and the EU remain committed to supporting that effort.