29 March 2011, Male;The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, H.E. Mr. Ahmed Naseem, today welcomed signals from the Government of Yemen that it has entered into a dialogue with the opposition as a first step towards a smooth and peaceful democratic transition.
"It is the responsibility of governments everywhere to allow people to exercise their universal rights of freedom of assembly, freedom of expression, and freedom to democratically elect one's own government. It is also beholden on governments to listen to the demands of the people and to engage with them in pursuance of a better future. The Maldives is pleased that the Government of Yemen has indicated its willingness to fully respect the rights and freedoms of the people of Yemen".
ENDS