No: 117, 1 May 2023, Press Release Regarding the Repatriation of Turkish Citizens in Sudan

The clashes between the Army and the Rapid Support Forces in the Republic of Sudan since 15 April 2023 are of concern.

We are worried that the clashes still continue despite all international efforts and that civilian casualties are on the rise.

H.E. President Erdoğan, H.E. Minister Çavuşoğlu and other Turkish authorities have been in close contact with their Sudanese counterparts since the outset of the events and called for restraint and ceasefire.

Meanwhile, Türkiye engages in several initiatives for the peaceful settlement of the issue and mobilizes all diplomatic channels to avoid further bloodshed amongst Sudanese brothers.

The repatriation operations of our citizens from Sudan which began on 23 April 2023 have been completed today (1 May).

Land, sea and air routes have all been used during our evacuation operations. The security of our citizens has been our main concern during the entire process.

We have ensured the safe evacuation of more than 1700 citizens as well as around 300 nationals from 22 counties who requested for assistance. Any evacuation request from the remaining Turkish citizens in Sudan will be given due consideration.

The planning to replace Nyala Sudan-Türkiye Training and Research Hospital personnel is ongoing.

We extend our gratitude to all countries, in particular Ethiopia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Sudan which contributed to our evacuation operations.