The Al-Jawf National Council held a political symposium titled “Yemen and Saudi Arabia: From Security to Strategic Partnership” bringing together officials, specialists and local leaders to discuss Saudi Arabia’s development interventions in Yemen and the wider impact of bilateral cooperation on stability in the region.
The programme included three working papers, one of which focused on the role of the Project Masam Landmine Clearance Project – Yemen in protecting civilians and enabling recovery in areas affected by landmine contamination.
According to a statement issued by the Council, speakers emphasised the importance of mine action as a foundation for restoring security, supporting basic services, and creating the conditions required for long-term development. Project Masam’s technical support to local authorities and its coordination with the Yemen Executive Mine Action Centre (YEMAC) were highlighted as central to clearance efforts across liberated areas.
During the symposium, the Al-Jawf National Council presented an honorary shield to Project Masam in recognition of its extensive humanitarian work and its contribution to safeguarding civilian lives. The award reflects the value placed by local authorities on the project’s continued role in clearing mines and explosive remnants of war that have hindered movement, displaced families, and obstructed essential services.
The shield was presented by Sheikh Sinan Al-Iraqi, Chairman of the Council and Deputy Governor of Al-Jawf, together with Major General Mohammed Salem bin Aboud, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Interior. Both officials commended the dedication of Project Masam’s teams and their partnership in supporting safer conditions across Yemen’s northern governorates.
Sheikh Sinan Al-Iraqi stated that the tribute represents the appreciation of Yemeni communities for Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian role in stabilising Yemen. He noted that mine clearance remains a prerequisite for recovery in Al-Jawf, where large areas of agricultural land, roads, and residential zones have been contaminated during the conflict.
He also reaffirmed that the work carried out by Project Masam contributes directly to creating a safer environment for civilians and to paving the way for future development projects.
