The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring the unfolding of the events in New Caledonia over the past two weeks and is looking to repatriate Fijians from the troubled French territory.
The Ministry in a statement said safety and well being of the nationals is the top priority and they are in contact with the Fijians who went for holidays and are stranded there including those who are employed and reside in New Caledonia.
The Ministry is coordinating closely with Australia, New Zealand, France and Fiji Airways on the possible repatriation of 12 nationals stranded in New Caledonia.
“We are providing regular updates to our nationals and have assured them that work is in progress to safely repatriate them as soon as possible.”
“In terms of the repatriation process, we are coordinating closely with Australia to have our nationals board the Australian flights over the next few days.”
“Fiji Airways is on standby to provide the revised tickets once the port of entry from Australia is confirmed.”
Additionally, the Fiji High Commission in Australia will be available to meet the nationals and provide waiting areas for them on their arrival into Australia as they wait for their next possible flight to Fiji.
The passenger information have been conveyed through diplomatic channel to Australia and Fiji nationals have been informed to apply for transit visas through Australia.
“We acknowledge the dire situation of our nationals who are stranded and wish to assure them, their families and friends that our citizens safety is of paramount, as we coordinate the repatriation efforts with our development Partners,” the Ministry further stated.
