Ethiopia Repatriates 1,971 Citizens After Saudi Royal Amnesties

Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Monday that 1,971 of its nationals have benefited from royal amnesties in Saudi Arabia, with the Ethiopian government facilitating their repatriation. In a press statement, the ministry said the government places the highest priority on the welfare, protection, and consular assistance of Ethiopians living abroad.

It said Ethiopia has continued to engage the Saudi government at the highest diplomatic levels, with its Embassy in Riyadh and Consulate General in Jeddah maintaining regular communication with relevant Saudi authorities.

These efforts focus on securing humanitarian consideration, ensuring access to consular services, and pursuing remedies for nationals facing legal proceedings and other difficult circumstances, the ministry said. It described the repatriations as a testament to strong bilateral relations and constructive cooperation between Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia in consular and humanitarian affairs.

The ministry said it will continue to use all available diplomatic and consular channels to safeguard the rights and welfare of Ethiopians overseas while maintaining engagement with Saudi authorities on remaining matters.