The UK government has pledged to intensify its security cooperation with the Yemeni government.

Ahram Online understands the pledge was made during a meeting between the Yemeni provisional president, Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, and Oliver Robbins, the British deputy national advisor, in Sanaa.

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) told Ahram Online that the cooperation includes helping Yemen restructure its security apparatus.

"We fully stand behind President Hadi in this transitional period in order for things to go smoothly," the spokesperson added.

Robbins met with President Hadi Tuesday on "a planned visit" to Yemen. The visit came days after Hadi made a big army reshuffle.

British military and security advisors are working alongside with the Yemen departments to rebuild the army and security abilities. 

Robbins “passed on the prime minister’s full support for Hadi’s efforts to bring security, prosperity and stability to Yemen,” the FCO said in a statement.

Robbins made clear that the UK believes the decrees issued by President Hadi to restructure Yemen’s military and security institutions should be implemented peacefully and without delay.

“We liaise with the Yemeni authorities regarding security issues,” the FCO spokesperson said.

The UK says the security situation in Yemen remains precarious.

The Friends of Yemen group, in which the UK plays active role,  is expected to meet in New York next month.

“The UK government is committed to ensuring the international community’s efforts remain aligned to help alleviate Yemen’s humanitarian crisis and to make the transition towards full parliamentary elections in 2014 a reality,” the FCO statement said.

British officials and politicians used to describe Yemen as failed state. They have repeatedly warned that the situation in Yemen threatens security in the whole region.

The FCO advises British people against visiting Yemen and urges its nationals to leave the country.  It said in its travel advice that the situation in Yemen remains volatile with reports of continuing unrest and violent clashes.