Saudi FM: Germany's ban on weapon sales to Yemen conflict strange

(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BERLIN, Feb 23 (KUNA) -- Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubair said he was surprised about Germany's move banning weapon sales to countries involved in the conflict in Yemen.

In an interview with the German news agency DPA, Al Jubair described as "strange" the decision taken by the German coalition partners in their outline agreement.

Yet, he stressed that his country does not depend on German armaments, and will find weaponry somewhere else.

The minister said he found it hard to understand Berlin's decision, noting that the war in Yemen was "legitimate" and was launched upon demand from the "legitimate" Yemeni government, and in line with a UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.

Germany, however, was supplying arms to countries fighting the so-called Islamic State (IS) groups in Syria and Iraq, and Taliban in Afghanistan.

He spoke of "a distinction" between "legitimate wars." The German coalition agreement still has to be approved by members of the Social Democratic Party (SPD).

In the meantime, the Saudi chief diplomat said bilateral relations are "excellent in principle" and highly appreciated by Riyadh.

Al Jubair hoped for a new start in ties between the Kingdom and Germany after the formation of the German Government. (end) anj.msa

MENAFN2302201800710000ID1096506937