Spanish embassy in Yemen inaugurated [Archives:2006/939/Front Page]

Mohammed Al-Jabri
SANA'A, April 18 ) Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Moratinos and Yemeni Foreign Minister Abu Bakr Al-Qirbi participated Wednesday, April 19, in raising the Spanish flag to inaugurate the opening of Spain's embassy in Yemen.

Al-Qirbi affirmed that raising the Spanish flag not only will be the beginning of good relations between the two countries, but also strengthen a relationship that began in the 1950s. Moratinos said opening the Spanish Embassy will contribute to promoting security and stability in the Middle East.

During the bilateral discussion, Al-Qirbi welcomed the Spanish delegation, noting that it is the first time a Spanish foreign minister has visited Yemen.

“Yemen and Spain have many important fields of joint cooperation,” Moratinos said, “Spain has special relations with Arab states. This visit is very important, as we need a vital partner like Yemen. It is time for us all to work hand in hand.”

The two sides signed an agreement in fields of education, science and culture, whereby the two nations will develop their relations and exchange educational materials and research.

On the same front, Moratinos and his delegation met with President Ali Abdullah Saleh, discussing cooperation aspects between the two countries in fields of tourism, energy and fisheries. They also discussed topics related to security and counterterrorism.

Saleh also welcomed Spanish investment in Yemeni territories, whether in fields of energy, gas, tourism or fisheries.

According to the official state-run web site, Saleh mentioned Al-Jazeera correspondent Tayseer Allouni, who has been detained in Spain, and called on Spanish authorities to free him.
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