Yemen Prime Minister Mueen Abdulmalek called on the World Bank Monday to open an office in Aden, Yemen's provincial capital.

Abdulmalek made the remarks during a meeting in Aden with World Bank Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa Ferid Belhaj, and World Bank's Executive Director and Dead of Board of Executive Directors Mirza Hassan, official Saba news agency reported.

He commended partnership and cooperation between Yemen and the World Bank, noting the bank's contributions to infrastructure projects and vital sectors.

Abdulmalek said support of allies helped the Yemeni government stop economic deterioration and collapse of the national currency. "This has sent positive messages for the international community on importance of partnership with State institutions."

He said his government relied on the World Bank's support to help economic recovery and comprehensive development.

Hassan meanwhile asserted the World Bank's support to Yemen's legitimate government.

The World Bank realizes magnitude of challenges in Yemen, he said.AFP