US envoy praises Hadramaut security efforts

The US ambassador to Yemen visited Hadramaut Monday (November 18th) and met with local government officials to discuss stabilisation, development and counter-terrorism efforts, local media reported.

Christopher Henzel met with governor Maj. Gen. Faraj Salmeen al-Bahsani in Hadramaut’s provincial capital of al-Mukalla and described what was achieved in Hadramaut as "unique and exemplary".

He stressed the need for the international community to support such efforts, and the importance of US support to Yemen in combating terrorism and confronting the Iran-backed Houthis (Ansarallah).

Al-Bahsani praised Hadramaut's achievements and prospects of development, and the return of normal life and government institutions.

At a later meeting attended by al-Bahsani, Henzel, US embassy officials and Hadramaut security, military and civil leaders, attendees reviewed the province’s measures to establish security, combat crime and terrorism, stimulate development, support youth and involve women in the decision-making process.

They also discussed co-operation in development, security and the war on terror.

Al-Bahsani awarded the province’s shield to Henzel in expression of Yemen’s appreciation of US support for Hadramaut's local government.

The visit of the US ambassador to Hadramaut "is aimed at reviewing counter-terrorism and stabilisation efforts and discussing ways the US can support such efforts", 2nd Military Zone spokesman Hesham al-Jabri told Al-Mashareq.

Henzel praised Hadramaut’s efforts in combating terrorism and liberating Hadramaut Coast from al-Qaeda in April 2016, he said.

Al-Qaeda seized control of al-Mukalla on April 1st, 2015, and ruled with an iron fist until it was ousted just over a year later.

Since then, security and stability were reestablished and services and infrastructure were rebuilt in all areas, including health, education and infrastructure.