The United Nations has called on the parties to the conflict in Yemen to engage in constructive dialogue to reach a comprehensive ceasefire in the country and begin a political process.

The office of the UN envoy to Yemen, Hans Grundberg, said in a statement on Sunday evening that Grundberg’s deputy, Sarhad Fattah, concluded a week-long visit to the temporary capital of Aden in southern Yemen, and met with Yemeni Prime Minister Ahmed bin Mubarak, Foreign Minister Shaye’ al-Zindani, and a number of others. Yemeni officials, in addition to representatives of civil society and women representatives in political parties and components.”

The statement explained that the discussions focused on “the current situation in Yemen, emphasizing that peace is the only option to move forward, and the urgent need for a constructive dialogue aimed at a comprehensive nationwide ceasefire and the start of a political process,” according to the statement.