Yemen Says It Raised Houthis' Alleged Use of Chinese Technology With Beijing
On Wednesday, Yemen's foreign minister, Afrah al-Zouba, revealed that discussions have taken place with Beijing regarding the Houthis' purported efforts to utilize Chinese technology for weaponry. During a virtual press briefing about the ongoing conflict in Yemen, Zouba emphasized that the Chinese are considered partners and noted that the issue of dual-use products had been addressed. This statement came in response to an inquiry from Agence France-Presse concerning reports of the Iran-backed group seeking Chinese components for weapon manufacturing. Zouba mentioned that Chinese officials expressed a strong interest in any information to facilitate their investigation, affirming their clear support for the Yemeni government. Reports indicate that the Houthis are attempting to develop advanced missiles, with shipping documents linking a Chinese supplier to certain components. The conflict has intensified, involving Saudi Arabia, which is the primary supporter of the Yemeni government.
Key facts
- Yemeni Foreign Minister Afrah al-Zouba said on Wednesday that his government had spoken with Beijing about the Houthis' alleged use of Chinese-made technology for weapons.
- Zouba said the two sides discussed the use of dual products, calling the Chinese partners.
- He was responding to an Agence France-Presse question about reports the Iran-backed group was trying to secure Chinese components for weapons manufacturing.
- Zouba said Chinese officials were very keen for information so they could investigate and that their support for the Yemeni government is clear.
- The minister spoke to journalists via a virtual press conference addressing the war in Yemen.
- A report says the Houthis are trying to produce advanced missiles.
- Shipping documents listing a Chinese supplier were found with some parts, according to the report.
- The civil war has escalated and has drawn in Saudi Arabia, the Yemeni government's main backer.
Entities
Artists
- Afrah al-Zouba
Institutions
- Yemeni government
- Houthis
- Agence France-Presse
- South China Morning Post
Locations
- Yemen
- Beijing
- China
- Saudi Arabia
- Iran