reviewed reports on the situation in the Gulf and ordered the cancellation of the April 12 General Elections in the Middle East to safeguard the integrity of the Peruvian community in countries affected by conflict.
The decision was immediately communicated to the National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE).
The meeting assessed the seriousness of the situation and the possibility that the conflict could be prolonged.
As a result, the general election process will not take place in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, and Lebanon.
Diplomatic officials in Gulf countries provided details on the emergency situation and the risks of remaining in the area if the situation persists, both for Peruvian citizens residing or stranded there, as well as for their families and for the officials themselves.
During the virtual meeting, also attended by Deputy Minister Felix Denegri, line agency officials, and heads of diplomatic missions in the Middle East, authorities agreed to strengthen ongoing efforts.
The aim is to achieve the swift evacuation of all Peruvian citizens in transit who were left stranded.
In that regard, Minister De Zela ordered that the mission in the UAE be reinforced with additional diplomatic personnel.
This is intended to address the demand for assistance and information from Peruvian nationals.
The Cabinet member also urged heads of Peru’s diplomatic missions in those countries to remain in safe conditions with their families and be ready to take further action if the conflict worsens.
To date, a total of 163 Peruvians who were stranded have been evacuated to safe areas.
Authorities remain in permanent contact with 62 other nationals in the same transit situation for evacuation, as well as with residents who wish to leave the area.
Around 5,600 Peruvians are currently residing in the Middle East.
(END) NDP/JCC/JCR/MVB