Government and World Bank Delegation Explore Strategies to Enhance Partnership and Expand Development Initiatives

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A meeting was held on Monday in Aden, chaired by Dr. Afrah al-Zouba, Yemen’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation and Governor to the World Bank. The session included a high-level delegation from the World Bank, led by Ousmane Dione, the Bank’s Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The discussions focused on enhancing the partnership between Yemen and the World Bank, with an emphasis on expanding support across various development, humanitarian, service, and economic sectors.

During the meeting, several ministers reviewed key World Bank projects aimed at improving service delivery, financial and economic conditions, and strengthening institutional support and capacity building in Yemen. Initiatives discussed included public financial reviews, the development of financial management systems, and the national strategy for managing international trade, among others. The government representatives highlighted the challenges faced by public sectors due to the ongoing exceptional circumstances in the country, which have led to significant economic and service pressures.

The importance of aligning national priorities with the World Bank’s strategic partnership framework was underscored to ensure sustainable development impact. The discussions also focused on building national capacities, improving institutional efficiency, and engaging qualified national professionals in the implementation of development programs and projects. Dr. al-Zouba emphasized the government’s commitment to a comprehensive approach to economic and financial reforms aimed at achieving growth and improving service levels.

Ousmane Dione reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Yemen across various sectors. He outlined the Bank’s strategy, which is centered on three main pillars: improving nutrition, expanding access to electricity services, and developing the agriculture and aquaculture sectors. Dione also expressed the Bank’s dedication to providing technical, operational, and organizational support while localizing development and humanitarian efforts.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions in preparation for the upcoming Country Partnership Framework meeting scheduled for May, where the government’s observations and proposals will be taken into account. This ongoing dialogue reflects the shared goal of fostering sustainable development in Yemen amidst its current challenges.