Yemeni PM chairs first meeting of Peace-building Fund steering committee

Prime Minister Mohamed Salem Basindwa on Monday chaired a meeting of the steering committee of the Peace-building Fund, which oversees and coordinates the UN Peace-building Fund's operations in Yemen according to the country's priority plan. During the meeting, which is the first, the steering committee approved the principles of the peace-building priority plan aiming to support the implementation of peace agreements and political dialogue, promote coexistence, resolve conflict through peaceful means, stimulate the economy and provide resources for peaceful projects. The priorities of the peace-building fund in Yemen focus on good governance and supporting transitional justice, in addition to supporting livelihood and providing social services. UN officials gave a presentation on the Fund, founded in 2006, its objectives and activities. They stated that the steering committee in Yemen is co-chaired by the Prime Minister, UN special envoy to Yemen and the UN Resident Coordinator. It also includes government officials, UN organizations, diplomats and civil society representatives as members. They said that the steering committee provides strategic direction, supervision and making decisions on the peace-building fund's allocations.