Statement by President Obama on the Signing of the GCC-Brokered Agreement in Yemen

I welcome today’s action by the Yemeni government and the opposition to sign a political agreement brokered by the Gulf Cooperation Council to form a government of national unity within 14 days and hold early presidential elections within 90 days.  In particular, the United States welcomes President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s decision to transfer executive powers immediately to the Vice President in accordance with the agreement.  This represents an important step forward for the Yemeni people, who deserve the opportunity to determine their own future.

For ten months, the Yemeni people have courageously and steadfastly voiced their demands for change in cities across Yemen in the face of violence and extreme hardship.  Today’s agreement brings them a significant step closer to realizing their aspirations for a new beginning in Yemen.  The United States urges all parties to move immediately to implement the terms of the agreement, which will allow Yemen to begin addressing an array of formidable challenges and chart a more secure and prosperous path for the future. The United States will continue to stand by the Yemeni people as they embark on this historic transition. We also acknowledge the important work done by our GCC partners in supporting this step forward.