Shanghai (South24 Center)

On Tuesday (September 16), Shanghai hosted events commemorating the 30th anniversary of the signing of the sister city agreement with Aden, the capital of Yemen, which was established in 1995. The ceremony was attended by a high-level Yemeni government delegation led by Ahmed Hamid Lamlas, the Governor of Aden.

In his speech, Lamlas called for the formation of a joint economic and development committee between Aden and Shanghai to develop an investment and development roadmap. He emphasized that this step would open broader horizons for practical cooperation between the two sides in vital fields.

Lamlas noted that the relations between Yemen and China are deeply rooted and historically significant, pointing out that next year will mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This milestone offers greater opportunities for cooperation within the framework of Beijing’s "Belt and Road" Initiative, he added.

The Governor of Aden highlighted promising investment opportunities in Yemen’s oil, gas, minerals, and fisheries sectors, as well as the strategic importance of Yemen's location and its ports, particularly the Port of Aden, which serves as a key hub for integration with the "Belt and Road" Initiative.

Lamlas also stressed the government's commitment to providing a safe and attractive investment environment, ensuring all necessary legal and regulatory facilities and guarantees for the success and sustainability of Chinese projects. He affirmed that investment in Yemen represents a cornerstone for a long-term strategic partnership with China.

He renewed his call for Chinese companies to invest in strategic projects, especially in the field of solar energy, noting that the capital, Aden, is now administratively, logistically, and security-ready to host such projects.

The Governor of Aden appreciated China's announcement to exempt Yemeni exports from customs duties, mentioning that the exemption protocol will be signed next month in Shanghai. This step is expected to enhance opportunities for trade exchange and future partnership between the two countries.

In conclusion, Lamlas reaffirmed the Yemeni government's firm stance in supporting the "One China" policy, praising the significant support provided by the People's Republic of China to Yemen in various fields and international forums.