The outcome of Yemen negotiations in Sweden show that achieving peace in the country is possible, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.
Mr. Pompeo commended the government and rebel delegations for reaching agreement on a ceasefire and withdrawal of forces in the key port city of Hodeidah, exchange of prisoners and the opening humanitarian corridors to the embattled city of Taez, which were announced at the conclusion of the initial round of talks on Thursday.
"Although many details remain subject to further discussion, these consultations between the Republic of Yemen Government and the Houthis marked a pivotal first step," Mr Pompeo said in a statement released by the State Department.
"Moving forward, all must continue to engage, de-escalate tensions, and cease ongoing hostilities. This is the best way to give these and future consultations a chance to succeed." he said.
"The work ahead will not be easy, but we have seen what many considered improbable begin to take shape. Peace is possible. The end of these consultations can be the beginning of a new chapter for Yemen."
The progress in peace efforts comes as the US administration faces increasing pressure from legislators over its assistance to the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen's government against the Iran-backed rebels.
On Thursday, the Senate approved a largely symbolic resolution to end US backing for the coalition. The resolution cannot be debated in the House of Representatives before January, when members elected in last month's midterm elections will take their seats. It would probably be vetoed in any case by President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly voiced support for Saudi Arabia.
International pressure for peace in Yemen has been driven by concerns of a full-blown humanitarian crisis if fighting escalated in Hodeidah, which is the main entry point for shipments of food and humanitarian aid to the impoverished country.
The agreement in Sweden to allow UN supervision of Hodeidah's ports, as well as establish humanitarian corridors, has raised hopes of getting aid to about 22 million Yemenis in need, or four-fifths of the population. About 14 million are on the verge of starvation, according to the Red Cross.
Heartening to see positive outcomes of Yemen talks, including ceasefire and withdrawal of troops in Hodeidah. Taking steps towards peace required courage from both delegations - now we need to build a lasting settlement and stop people dying
— Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) December 13, 2018
British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who recently visited the region to advocate peace efforts, welcomed the agreement but said the focus should be on a "lasting settlement".
The UN special envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths said the government and rebels have agreed to meet again in late January to discuss a political framework for peace, although a venue has yet to be decided.
