Tough work vital in Yemen,Britain says

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LONDON, March 15 (UPI) -- Broad and honest participation is required from all parties in Yemen to direct the country along the path to stability, the British government said.

London is to be the site of a Yemen national dialogue conference Monday. The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office said such talks are vital for successful political transition in Yemen.

"The dialogue is the best and only opportunity for Yemenis of all sides to come together, resolve their political differences peacefully, and participate in creating a new future for their country," the government said. "The dialogue will require the broadest possible participation."

Yemeni President Abdu Rabbo Mansour Hadi called for an inclusive national dialogue toward a new constitution and national elections next year. Yemen is working to move past the legacy of former President Ali Abdullah Saleh while addressing separatist and al-Qaida threats.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns said last week that dialogue would be difficult, but the "alternative of more bloodshed and destruction is far worse."

The British government warned there may be internal and foreign groups working to undermine the transformation in Yemen. Iran is among the foreign power suspected of meddling in Yemeni affairs.

"President Hadi and other Yemeni political leaders have shown great resolve and determination, and it is now time for Yemenis to decide together what their future holds," London said.