Sahwa Net – The U.S. ambassador to Yemen Stephen Seche has expressed his concern about violations practiced against journalists and newspapers in Yemen, reaffirming his country's support to principles of press freedom all over the world.

He said in a press conference arranged by the Media Women Forum in Sana'a "The increase of infringements against citizens, particularly journalists, affect on ruling regimes legitimacy as citizens are real partners in power and decision-making".

Seche further voiced his concern over the ban imposed by the Yemeni government on some Yemeni newspapers, the disappearance of some journalists and issuing unfair sentences against journalists and newspapers.

He cited that Yemen faces serious challenges and the lack to independent and responsible press is one of these challenges, advising the Yemeni government to solve troubles rather than accusing journalists and press.

In response to a question raised by reporters about whether the United States could put pressure on the Yemeni government to halt the repression campaign, he said that the U.S. administration would not use pressure on Yemen, pointing out that his country encourages the Yemeni government to allow press to run freely and provide citizens with information.

The U.S. ambassador to Yemen also expressed concern as journalists in Yemen, both local and international, could not access to Saada to evaluate and monitor the situation.

"The two parties of conflict in Saada take advantage of the media absence" added he.

He indicated that democracy in Yemen is still in its infancy and needs to be developed, concluding that free and responsible press is among the most important pillars of democracy.