Washington, DC - Secretary Kerry met today in Paris with Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir. They reviewed the strong and enduring relationship between their countries and discussed a broad range of regional issues, including Yemen, Syria, and Iran.
The two ministers exchanged views on the Yemeni peace talks being held in Kuwait, and the Secretary expressed the U.S. Government's appreciation for the key role Saudi Arabia continues to play in combating terrorism and AQAP in Yemen, in particular. Saudi leadership in making available an operations center and contributing the largest number of forces has been indispensable to recent successes, including most recently in al Mukallah.
Finally, they exchanged views regarding the fight against Daesh and the restoration of the cessation of hostilities in Syria in accordance with UNSC 2254. Secretary Kerry provided an update on recent discussions and the situation on the ground, and they both stressed the importance of all sides fully respecting the cessation of hostilities.