Saudi Arabia, Gulf and Western nations have pledged more than 4 billion dollars in aid to Yemen. At the Friends of Yemen Conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia pledged 3.25 billion dollars of a total 4 billion dollars in aid. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal told envoys that it will support all the political initiatives to achieve security, stability and prosperity in Yemen. Britain pledged 44 million dollars over and above(in addition,besides,other than,beyond,apart from)its commitments to Yemen.

Yemeni President Mansur Hadi arrived in Riyadh to hold talks with the Saudi King Abdullah on Monday. The two leaders discussed bilateral and regional issues. The visit comes at a time when Hadi has taken charge from the former President Saleh and political uncertainty continues in Yemen. Saudi Arabia played a crucial role in forging the Gulf-brokered accord that paved the way for Saleh's departure.

The oil-rich kingdom has been a major source of foreign aid for its impoverished neighbour, and is due to host the next "Friends of Yemen" meeting of donor countries in Riyadh on 23rd May