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<p>Red Sea Ports are currently operational and continue to import most of the food
and fuel on which Yemenis rely. For most of this year imports have been robust and
in some cases exceeded pre-war levels. We are however concerned about recent reports
of a reduction of imports into Yemen.</p><p> </p><p>To maintain confidence of commercial
importers, the UK recently worked with the US, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates
to agree measures with the Central Bank of Yemen to issue letters of credit to provide
foreign currency so that importers can purchase food on international markets. This
will help strengthen imports. It has also resulted in an appreciation of the Yemeni
Riyal, increasing the purchasing power of ordinary Yemenis.</p><p> </p><p>It is imperative
the Red Sea ports of Hodeidah and Saleef remain operational. Yemen relies on imports
to meet 90% of its basic needs like food and fuel. We therefore welcome the positive
outcomes of peace talks in Stockholm. A political settlement is the only way to bring
long-term stability to Yemen and to address the worsening humanitarian crisis.</p>
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