UAE’s company tightens its grip at Socotra Airport

SOCOTRA, Feb. 19 (YPA) – An Emirati company has taken over the management of the Socotra Archipelago Airport, located east of the Gulf of Aden, during the past two days, informed sources reported on Wednesday.

The sources indicated that an Emirati holding company called “Eastern Triangle” took over the management of Socotra Airport based on the directives of the Minister of Transport in the Saudi-led coalition-allied government, Abdul Salam Hamid, who is considered close to the Southern Transitional Council (STC), and with the approval of the pro-UAE Socotra Governor, Raafat Al-Thaqali.

According to the sources, the company will take over the management of the airport completely, with changes that include replacing current employees, which will enhance its complete control over the island’s sea and air ports.

This step falls within the framework of an expansion plan for the Emirati company, which is also involved in controversial projects that include attracting and purchasing land in nature reserves and on the coasts.

The sources explained that the “Eastern Triangle” company, which is managed by Emirati officer Saeed Al-Kaabi, replaced the Emirati “Dexim Power” company in managing Emirati activities in Socotra.

Local backlash is expected, with airport employees planning to stage a protest outside the airport gate on Thursday to reject the handover of the facility to the Emirati company and to protest layoffs that threaten their jobs. These developments raise questions about the commitment of the Leadership Council and the allied government to preserving Yemen’s sovereignty.

YPA