PRESS RELEASE

GOVERNMENT THROUGH ITS EMBASSY IN CAIRO, ENSURING SAFETY OF MALAWIAN NATIONALS IN EGYPT

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is closely monitoring the political developments in Egypt and would like to assure the general public that, through its Embassy in Cairo, it is doing everything in its power to ensure that Malawian nationals in that country are safe. Having the welfare of Malawians at heart, the Cairo Mission has been in constant communication with its nationals, who are mostly students, updating them on the current situation and advising them on precautionary measures to be taken. Information sharing with these Malawians started way before the demonstrations that ousted President Morsi began and meanwhile the Embassy is meeting all students today, 11 July 2013. The public will recall that the Government of Malawi, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Malawi Embassy in Cairo effectively managed as more or less similar situation in 2011, and has, therefore, acquired some experience. We would, therefore, appeal to all Malawians, especially, the fourth Estate to avoid sensationalism. We, thus for commend the media for the professional of the plight of Malawians currently in Egypt. Kindly also be informed that should the situation worsen, there are plans to accommodate all students at the Official Residence, just like in 2011 during the Revolution, when the Ambassador hosted many students at his house for over a month, for safety reasons.

The Ministry further wishes to array fears of loved ones of Malawians in Egypt that, whilst political demonstrations are still going on in Egypt, business is equally as usual in that country. One important thing to note is that the demonstrations are not sporadic, but rather they are taking place in specific areas. In Cairo, for example, the protests are taking place in Tahrir Square and Nasr City, while in Alexandria, they are being held at Sidi Gaber train station. Most Embassies, including Malawi Embassy, which are far away from these hotspots, are open for business as usual. For enquiries, the Malawi Missions line numbers are and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation can be reached on (1)89323, (1)788110 and speak to Ms Quent Kalichero. The Ministry is hereby reiterating statement on the situation of Malawians in Egypt. We are convinced and would like to give credit where it is due, that in the circumstance, the Malawi Mission in Cairo is doing a commendable job in ensuring the safety for Malawian nationals in that country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has a duty and responsibility to update the public on developments in Egypt.
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Contact Person: Ms. Quent Kalichero, PRO