MFA Spokesman's comments in response to media queries on the progress of MFA's assisted departure exercise for Singaporeans in Egypt

In response to media queries on the progress of MFA's assisted departure exercise for Singaporeans in Egypt, the MFA spokesman said

"Since the onset of the crisis in Egypt on 25 January 2011, the Singapore Embassy in Cairo has worked closely with MUIS and PERKEMAS (Singapore Student Welfare Organisation in Egypt) to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of our students in Egypt. In view of the fluid security situation, we have strongly advised all Singaporeans in Egypt to leave if they do not have any compelling reason to remain behind. We are also maintaining our current advice for Singaporeans to defer all non-essential travel to Egypt.
With the support of Singapore Airlines, we have facilitated the return of all Singaporeans who wish to leave Egypt. Over the past week, 225 Singaporeans, including 190 students, have returned to Singapore.
While the majority of Singaporeans have returned home, a small number have chosen to remain in Egypt. The Singapore Embassy in Cairo will continue to maintain regular contact with them, and provide the necessary consular assistance. We have advised them to be vigilant, exercise extreme caution and avoid the troubled areas. We will continue to monitor developments in Egypt very closely."

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