United Kingdom appoints Abda Sharif, Muslim of Pakistani descent, as new ambassador to Yemen

LONDON : The United Kingdom ousted its ambassador to the government loyal to Saudi-led coalition, Richard Oppenheim.

The British Foreign Ministry announced the appointment of a new ambassador, Abda Sharif. Sharif is of Pakistani origin.

Britain had previously appointed Sharif to diplomatic posts in Iraq and Lebanon. The new ambassador will officially assume her duties in September.

The timing of the decision to appoint a new British ambassador indicates London’s efforts to play a greater role during the coming period, most notably opening a channel of communication with Sana’a.

especially as it comes at a time when new UN moves have begun to push for a new settlement in Yemen.