Ministry to Repatriate 70,000 Ethiopians from Saudi Arabia

Addis Ababa, April 4/2024 (ENA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced today that it would start repatriation of 70,000 Ethiopians from Saudi Arabia.

Briefing journalists today, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla stressed the government’s commitment to assisting Ethiopians who are in difficult situations abroad.  

Following a discussion with Saudi officials, led by Ethiopia's Foreign Affairs State Minister,   Birtukan Ayano, some 70, 000 Ethiopians who are in difficult situation from Saudi Arabia would be repatriated. 

A national committee, comprised of 16 institutions, is undertaking diligent preparation for the return of  Ethiopians including logistical and shelter provision. 

According to the Spokesperson, the Ethiopian government has repatriated over 50,000 Ethiopians from various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Gulf nations, and other African states in the last 9 months.

Nebiyu emphasized the importance of legal employment pathways through constructive dialogues with countries interested in welcoming Ethiopian workers.  

Thus, he pointed out that Ethiopia has established legal employment agreements with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Jordan, while negotiations are ongoing with Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.

As a country, Ethiopia is not only source of migrants but it also hosts over one million refugees from different countries, he stated, and added that currently, the country is hosting about one million refugees.  

“Ethiopia remains dedicated to effective migration governance, aligning with the principles of the Global Compact on Migration,” Nebiyu noted. .  

The international community should support Ethiopia’s migration initiatives, he stated, and called upon the global community and partners to enhance their assistance.  

In another development, the Spokesperson said the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) has signed an agreement with the ministry to open its headquarters in Addis Ababa.