Foreign Affairs Minister Gustavo Meza-Cuadra on Wednesday reported that more than 16,000
Peruvians have been repatriated since the closure of borders and suspension of international flights amid a state of emergency to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Peru.
"We have repatriated, since March 17,
a little more than 16,000 compatriots, with the support of other Ministries including those of Foreign Trade-Tourism and Health, as well as other institutions," he said in statements to Radio Nacional.
According to the government official, a group of compatriots who were stranded in Arica (Chile) —on the southern border of the country— are already in Peruvian territory after a journey by land.
The minister disclosed that there are Peruvian nationals who remain stranded in the United States, Spain and distant cities such as Johannesburg (South Africa).
In the case of Johannesburg, a flight is being arranged —together with Argentina— to repatriate people stuck in such city.
Minister Meza-Cuadra explained that —in addition to those stranded due to the closure of borders and suspension of international flights— another group of Peruvians are seeking to be repatriated as they have lost their jobs or can no longer afford to stay abroad.
(END) JCC/FHG/RMB/MVB
Published: 5/27/2020