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

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

"Since the start of the crisis in Egypt on 25 January 2011, the safety and well-being of Singaporeans in Egypt has been of paramount concern to us. Our Embassy in Cairo, together with MUIS and PERKEMAS (Singapore Student Welfare Organisation in Egypt), have maintained close contact with all Singaporean students studying in Egypt. In view of the tense security situation, the Embassy has worked closely with MUIS and PERKEMAS and with the support of Singapore Airlines, facilitated the return of all Singaporeans, who wish to leave Egypt. Additional consular staff had been despatched from Singapore to help in the assisted departure exercise in Cairo. Over the past few days, we have facilitated the return of 95 Singaporeans, including 81 students. We expect another 102 students and 31 Singaporeans to return to Singapore on Friday. We will continue to monitor very closely developments in Egypt. The Embassy will continue to provide all necessary assistance and maintain regular contact with Singaporeans remaining in Egypt."

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
3 FEBRUARY 2011