The Vanuatu Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has advised staff at its Consulate Office in Dubai not to report to work due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Director of Foreign Affairs, Yvon Basil, told VBTC News that the decision follows escalating tensions in the region.
Vanuatu recently opened its Consulate Office in Dubai, which is the country’s only diplomatic office within the affected Middle East region. Although Consul General Andrew Leong is currently in Vanuatu, staff remain based at the Dubai office.
Mr Basil said the government is closely monitoring the situation and has instructed staff to remain at home until conditions return to normal.
He explained that the office is temporarily closed as a precautionary safety measure and staff will only return once the situation stabilizes.
The conflict reportedly escalated last weekend involving the United States, Israel and Iran, with international media reporting that Iranian attacks have reached parts of Dubai.
Mr Basil added that if any ni-Vanuatu in the region face safety concerns or require assistance, they are encouraged to contact the consulate office. However, so far, the Ministry has not received any requests for assistance.
