The following is the final statement issued after talks in London, as released by the British Foreign Office.

London, 27 January, 2010

Yemen, its friends and partners have today met in London to discuss the many urgent problems which the people of Yemen face.

The meeting reiterated support for a unified Yemen, respect for its sovereignty and independence, and commitment to non-interference in Yemen's internal affairs. It was clear that economic and social reform by the government of Yemen was key to long term stability and prosperity. It was agreed that a comprehensive approach was needed, with strong support from the international community.

The challenges in Yemen are growing and, if not addressed, risk threatening the stability of the country and broader region. The government of Yemen has identified the following areas which are of most concern:

i) Improved international coordination and support on Yemen;

ii) Working on a shared analysis of the challenges facing Yemen, including the conditions conducive to radicalisation and instability, and agreement that a comprehensive approach is needed to address them; and

iii) Greater support and impetus to the political and economic reform agenda, including urgent and concrete action by the Government of Yemen.

The government of Yemen recognises the urgent need to address these issues which will need sustained and focused engagement. It was agreed that responsibility for tackling these challenges lies first and foremost with the Government of Yemen, drawing on the support of the wider region and international community.

The meeting welcomed:

• The declared commitment of the Government of Yemen to continue to pursue its reform agenda, and to initiate discussion of an IMF programme. This will provide welcome support and help the government to confront immediate challenges.

• The announcement by the GCC Secretary General that he will host a meeting of Gulf and other partners of Yemen in Riyadh on 27-28 February. The meeting will share analysis on the barriers to effective aid in Yemen, leading to a joint dialogue with the government of Yemen, including on priority reforms.

• The commitment by the international community to supporting the Government of Yemen in the fight against Al Qaeda and other forms of terrorism, and the commitment by all participants to enforce fully all relevant UN Sanctions Committee designations under UNSCR 1267.

• The determination of the international community to engage further in support of Yemeni government efforts to build law enforcement, legislative, judicial and security capacities. Yemen's partners agreed to support Yemeni government initiatives to strengthen their counter-terrorist capabilities, and to enhance aviation and border security. This will include work on both land and maritime borders, including on strengthening the Yemeni Coastguard.

• The launch of a 'Friends of Yemen' process, which will address the broad range of challenges facing Yemen. The first meeting will take place in the region in late March. The Government of Yemen and the group of Friends will discuss ways and means of implementing Yemen's National Reform Agenda, including through two working groups on economy and governance; and justice and rule of law.