Government to set aside $1.96m for possible Middle East evacuation

The Government has approved a $1.96 million contingency fund to support the possible evacuation of Fijians from Israel, the United Arab Emirates and the wider Gulf region if the Middle East conflict escalates.

There are currently 751 Fijian nationals living across the Middle East and nearby regions, with the largest numbers based in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, as well as Fiji’s military personnel deployed in Sinai and the Golan Heights.

The Government confirmed all Fijians in these areas are safe and accounted for.

It says the allocation is part of contingency planning and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing and safety of Fijians living and working overseas.