Repatriation of Ethiopians from Saudi Arabia to Commence in Two Weeks

Addis Ababa, March 21, 2024 (FBC) – The State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, confirmed that the third phase of repatriation for 70,000 Ethiopian nationals facing hardship in Saudi Arabia is scheduled to commence in two weeks.

Ambassador Birtukan made this reamrk during a meeting of the National Committee, which she chairs, where discussions were held regarding the repatriation of Ethiopian nationals who are in a difficult situation in Saudi Arabia.

Furthermore, she emphasized that the successful repatriation of citizens necessitates collaborative efforts between federal institutions and regional states that are part of the national committee.

Ambassador Birtukan emphasized to the stakeholders the importance of ensuring that the essential budget, logistics, and shelters are adequately prepared for the returning citizens upon their arrival in Addis Ababa in order for the repatriation process to be successful.

For her part, Ms. Teyiba Hassen, the Director General of Refugees and Returnees Service of Ethiopia (RRS), underscored the need for the relevant institutions and regional states to prioritize the task of repatriating Ethiopian citizens who are under difficult situation in KSA.

The members of the National Committee affirmed their commitment to making the requisite arrangements to ensure the timely completion of the plan.