Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on Tuesday evening convened a virtual meeting with Ghana’s Ambassadors and Consuls General in the Middle East to assess emerging developments in the region and strengthen measures to protect Ghanaian nationals.

The emergency meeting brought together Heads of Mission from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Iran and Turkey.

According to the Minister, the meeting focused on reviewing the latest security situation and coordinating additional consular interventions to ensure the safety of Ghanaians living, visiting, or transiting through the affected countries.

“I am glad to report that so far no Ghanaian has been killed or injured,” Mr. Ablakwa stated.

He disclosed that the Ministry has compiled a comprehensive and reliable database of all Ghanaians within the jurisdictions concerned, including residents, short-term visitors, and transit passengers.

The move is aimed at improving coordination and facilitating swift assistance where necessary.

As part of contingency planning, all diplomatic missions have been directed to identify Ghanaian nationals who may wish to be evacuated for urgent consideration by the government.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s diplomatic missions in the region are assisting a significant number of citizens to leave through strategic border crossings where required.

Background
The emergency engagement follows rising geopolitical tensions and security concerns across parts of the Middle East, which have prompted several countries to review contingency plans for their citizens abroad.

In recent weeks, instability and heightened military activity in parts of the region have increased fears of possible spillover effects on foreign nationals.

Ghana maintains a significant diaspora presence in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf states, where many citizens are employed in sectors such as construction, healthcare, hospitality, domestic services, and education. Others are students or business travelers.

Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed that the safety and welfare of Ghanaians abroad remain the government’s top priority.

“For God and Country,” he concluded.

The government continues to monitor the situation closely and is expected to announce further measures if necessary.

Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan