THE Department of Foreign Affairs of Papua New Guinea has issued a strong travel advisory urging Papua New Guinean citizens to avoid travelling to the Middle East following the outbreak of war across the Gulf and Arab regions.
The statement was issued by Elias Wohengu, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, who warned that the rapidly deteriorating security situation has resulted in the closure of airspace and land borders in several affected countries.
Mr Wohengu said that under the current circumstances, evacuation operations are not possible.
“Many governments are unable to carry out evacuation exercises at this point, as all land borders and airspace are closed, and evacuation itself would pose serious security risks under the present war scenario,” the statement said.
The department acknowledged growing concern for Papua New Guinean nationals who are currently stranded in the region. Relatives and friends of PNG citizens affected by the conflict have been encouraged to contact the department’s State Protocol and Consular Division for assistance.
They can do so by telephone on 301 41 15 or via email at consular.affairs@dfa.gov.pg.
Despite the challenges, Mr Wohengu said governments within the region have issued humanitarian instructions to service providers to assist third-country nationals who are stranded, including citizens of Papua New Guinea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to closely monitor developments and provide updates as the situation evolves, while urging PNG citizens in the region to remain vigilant and comply with local authorities’ instructions.