The Chancellor of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported a significant decrease in the number of Lithuanian citizens in the Middle East, with many having left the region due to ongoing evacuation efforts.
The Chancellor of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania stated that there has been a notable decline in the number of Lithuanian citizens residing in the Middle East. This reduction is attributed to various evacuation measures, including organized flights from the United Arab Emirates. Currently, several hundred Lithuanians are reported to have left the UAE, facilitated by both emergency evacuation flights and commercial options. Many individuals have also been assisted through other countries' flights to safer EU locations.
On a recent flight from Dubai operated by 'FlyDubai,' 166 passengers were onboard, with 120 being Lithuanian citizens alongside Latvian and Estonian nationals. The flight aimed to return vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, families with young children, individuals with serious health conditions, those with physical disabilities, and elderly individuals. Some families were unable to board this flight and are expected to return on a subsequent evacuation flight headed to Cyprus.
Despite the dwindling numbers of Lithuanians in the region, Chancellor StakÄ—nienÄ— indicated that there are still many inquiries from citizens regarding the situation. The ministry continues to facilitate the safe return of its citizens from hazardous environments, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure their safety and well-being in times of crisis.
