March 24, 2025
Rehabilitating the Port of Aden a case-study for economic revival
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Yemen held a webinar on the rehabilitation of the port of Aden, a case study for economic recovery. Dr. Mohammed Amzerbeh delivered an opening speech on behalf of the Minister of State, His Excellency the Governor of Aden Governorate, Mr. Ahmed Hamed Lamlas, and as Chairman of the Gulf of Aden Ports Corporation, in which he said:
Opening Statement by the Executive Chairman of the Port of Aden on Behalf of the Governor of Aden and the Port Authority
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Distinguished Guests, Esteemed Participants,
Good afternoon,
It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this important webinar organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, where we will discuss the future of the Port of Aden as a case study for Yemen’s economic revival. On behalf of His Excellency Governor Ahmed Hamid Lamlas and the Port of Aden Authority, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to all attendees and participants in this significant event.
The Port of Aden, with its strategic location on the Gulf of Aden, is one of the most important ports in the region and the world. Historically, it has served as a vital artery for trade and commerce, not only for Yemen but for the entire region. However, the challenges the port has faced in recent years require concerted efforts from all stakeholders, both locally and internationally.
In this regard, I would like to emphasize the importance of close collaboration between government agencies, international organizations, and donor institutions. Without such cooperation, we cannot achieve the ambitious goals we have set for rehabilitating the port and restoring its role as a key commercial and investment hub.
In this context, I must extend our sincere thanks to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for their critical and ongoing support. UNDP’s assistance has been instrumental in developing the port’s comprehensive rehabilitation plan, prepared in collaboration with experts from the Port of Rotterdam. This support has not only been technical but has also included advisory services and essential funding for the implementation of numerous vital projects.
Today, we will hear a detailed presentation from my Deputy Eng. Abdulrab Al-Khulaqui about the ongoing and future projects aimed at rehabilitating the port. Among these ambitious projects, four hold special significance for me:
1. Improving access roads to the Aden Container Terminal and Ma’alla Wharf, which will accelerate cargo movement and reduce operational costs.
2. The tugboat project, which will enhance the efficiency of maritime operations within the port.
3. The installation of container cranes, which will increase the port’s capacity and speed up loading and unloading processes.
4. The construction of a tourist pier, which will restore the Port of Aden’s role as a key tourist destination in the region.
These projects are not just plans on paper—they are concrete steps toward rebuilding the Port of Aden as a global economic and commercial center. However, achieving these goals requires sustained support from donor institutions and international partners. We count on your continued backing and partnership to ensure the success of these initiatives.
In closing, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to all participants, and I look forward to fruitful and constructive discussions during this webinar. Together, we can realize the shared vision of the Port of Aden as an engine for economic development in Yemen and the region.
Thank you, and may peace and blessings be upon you all.
Link to YGAPC presentation in the webinar
.jpg)