Thirteen Fijian students have safely returned home from Israel following a successful repatriation mission led by the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), in close coordination with the Government of the State of Israel, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The students, from the Navuso Agriculture Technical Institute, had been in Israel since late last year for a 10-month practical attachment at the Arava International Center for Agricultural Training (AICAT).
The capacity-building initiative was established under a Memorandum of Understanding between the Fiji Ministry of Agriculture and the Israeli Government to support the advancement of Fiji’s agricultural sector.
Just as the students were preparing to return home after completing their programme, conflict broke out between Israel and Iran. In response, the Fijian Government swiftly activated a repatriation plan to prioritise the students’ safety and ensure their timely return.
The students were warmly welcomed at Nadi International Airport by relieved family members, friends, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Navuso Agriculture Technical Institute.
Grateful for their safe return, the students and their families expressed heartfelt thanks to the Fijian Government and the MFA for their dedicated efforts and continued support during the students’ time in Israel. They also acknowledged the Government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of Fijian nationals abroad.
The Ministry extended its appreciation to the Israeli Government for its cooperation and support in facilitating the evacuation, and thanked all stakeholders involved — including the students and their families — for their patience and contribution to the success of the repatriation.
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