The Indian Embassy in Libya has successfully facilitated the return of 18 Indian nationals who had been stranded in the eastern Libyan city of Benghazi for several weeks, reaffirming New Delhi’s commitment to the welfare and safety of its citizens overseas.
The workers are expected to arrive in India today following coordinated efforts between the embassy and local Libyan authorities to secure the necessary approvals and travel documentation for their departure.
The development was announced by Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, in a statement posted on social media.
According to Jaiswal, the group had traveled to Libya for employment opportunities but later found themselves stranded in Benghazi. The Indian Embassy maintained regular contact with the workers throughout the ordeal and worked closely with local authorities to resolve their situation.
In addition to arranging travel documents and authorizations, embassy officials provided ongoing support to the stranded nationals, including assistance with essential daily necessities while efforts were underway to facilitate their return.
The embassy’s intervention formed part of broader consular efforts aimed at ensuring the safety and wellbeing of Indian citizens living and working abroad, particularly in regions facing political, economic, or security challenges.
Jaiswal noted that three other Indian nationals from the same group had already returned to India earlier in October, bringing the majority of the affected workers safely back home.
The successful repatriation highlights the role of Indian diplomatic missions in providing emergency assistance to citizens overseas and reflects the government’s continued focus on protecting the interests of Indian workers abroad.
Libya remains home to a number of foreign workers employed across sectors including construction, energy, healthcare, and services. However, logistical and administrative challenges occasionally leave migrant workers facing difficulties related to documentation, employment disputes, or travel arrangements.
The Indian government has repeatedly stated that safeguarding its citizens overseas remains a top priority, with embassies instructed to provide timely assistance whenever Indian nationals encounter difficulties abroad.
The return of the 18 workers from Benghazi marks the latest example of consular cooperation between Indian diplomatic officials and local authorities to resolve challenges affecting citizens living overseas.