The Ministry of Transport in Sana’a has warned the government loyal to the Saudi-led coalition and its affiliates in Aden against entering into any agreements to lease Aden International Port to Abu Dhabi Ports in the UAE.
In a statement, the ministry stated that what the so-called the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) plan to lease Aden port to Abu Dhabi Ports constitutes an aggressive and unlawful act that undermines the sovereignty and resources of the nation.
It emphasized its rejection of any agreements that attempt to legitimize the UAE’s occupation of Aden port, stating that such agreements would be illegal, unrecognized, and hostile acts that infringe upon Yemen’s sovereignty and the rights of its citizens.
The statement further declared that Aden’s strategic port is coveted by many nations due to its natural advantages and geographic location that is crucial for international maritime navigation and global shipping companies.
The ministry noted that Dubai Ports, which previously controlled Aden port, had been expelled and had obstructed its maritime activities entirely, aiming to operate Dubai’s artificial ports as a maritime route.
The Ministry of Transport affirmed that Aden port is one of Yemen’s important ports and a major maritime port in the Gulf of Aden region, ranked as one of the largest natural ports globally, second only to New York in fuel supply to ships.
It pointed out that the UAE’s actions are aimed at undermining Yemen’s economic resources and natural wealth, which contribute to improving the livelihoods of the Yemeni people.