Nepal Prepares Evacuation Plans for Citizens in Middle East Conflict Zones

Kathmandu. Foreign Minister of the Interim Government, Bhalananda Sharma, stated that the government has begun preparations for the potential evacuation of millions of Nepali citizens residing in conflict-affected regions, including the Middle East.

Speaking at a press conference organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, Minister Sharma informed that a 'Situation Center' has been established under the ministry's leadership to work with pre-planning, not just during times of war.

Addressing the common query about why Nepali citizens are not immediately repatriated when war erupts in the Middle East, Minister Sharma cited the psychology and compulsions of the workers. According to Minister Sharma, approximately 1.9 to 2 million Nepalis are officially abroad, and between 2.5 to 3 million when including the informal sector.

He clarified that evacuating such a large number of citizens, if required, is no small task and necessitates national-level planning and infrastructure. Keeping this necessity in mind, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has set up the 'Situation Center'.

He stated that this center will maintain regular updates on Nepalis abroad, collect data on their status and location, and serve as a base for future rescue operations if needed.

Stating that people experience psychological effects during wartime, he mentioned that while everyone feels the impact when the first shot is fired, people gradually become accustomed. Asserting that the state cannot abandon its citizens, he pledged that the government will not shy away from the commitment to rescue 2 to 3 million citizens if necessary. Furthermore, he informed that the problems of the small number of Nepali passengers stuck in transit will be resolved soon.