Protests continue in Bahrain despite offer for dialogue by Government; Protests continue in Yemen, Yemeni President offers for talks with opposition
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    • Reports noted that hundreds of demonstrators are gathered at the Pearl Square in Manama for ninth day protesting against the government and ruling royal family. Earlier on February 19, Bahrain’s Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has offered a national dialogue “with all parties” in a conciliatory move to resolve a crisis. The Crown Prince has called on for calm, saying it was “time for dialogue, not fighting”. “The dialogue is always open and the reforms continue.” He also added that, “This land is for all citizens of Bahrain…We need to call for self-restraint from all sides, the armed forces, security men and citizens.” Calling upon the opposition he said that, “I respect Wefaq, as I respect others. Today is the time to sit down and hold a dialogue, not to fight.”1 Meanwhile, opposition groups met on February 20 to formulate a charter of demands and to take part in the dialogue process announced by the government. Earlier two people were killed by the security forces during the demonstrations in the capital and the King has expressed his regret for the deaths.

    Similarly, thousands of anti-government protesters continue to gather in front of the Sana'a University gate for 11th consecutive day, demanding that the Yemen President, Ali Abdullah Saleh, step down. There have been several clashes between the pro government and the anti-government protesters in the capital. On February 20, President Saleh offered dialogue between his ruling party and the opposition. He stated that, "Dialogue is the best means, not sabotage or cutting off roads. I am ready to sit on the negotiating table and meet their demands if they are legitimate." However, he warned against "infiltrators" seeking to divide Yemenis and sabotage their country."2 On February 19, riot police fired on protesters in Sana'a, killing one and injuring five others. A total of seven people have been killed since the unrest began.

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