Covid-19: Return arrangements available for Maldivians in countries with outbreaks

Return arrangements are available for all Maldivians and their spouses who reside in countries where novel coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreaks have emerged, says Government's Covid-19 spokesperson Mohamed Mabrook Aziz.

Speaking at Wednesday's Covid-19 press briefing, Mabrook addressed concerns regarding Maldivians residing at Bangladesh where an outbreak has emerged. Highlighting the ban imposed on all direct flights on Bangladesh, Mabrook revealed that joint efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defense are underway to evacuate Maldivians at Bangladesh.

Mabrook stated that the process will follow the same procedure used for the Maldivians who were evacuated from China, where the virus originated.

Ambassador of Maldives to Bangladesh, Aishath Shaan Shakir will be provide more information regarding the evacuation, said Mabrook, adding that updates will be provided at the next press briefing set for Wednesday night.

While the Maldives has banned arrivals from Italy, South Korea and Iran as well, Mabrook stated that arrangements are available for Maldivians and their spouses who reside in these countries and wish to return to the Maldives.

However, they will be placed under quarantine for 14-days as per protocol if they arrive from high-risk countries whether they exhibit symptoms or not, said Mabrook, adding that Maldivians arriving from low-risk countries will be assessed and released if no symptoms are observed.

As of Wednesday, the global death toll from Covid-19 infection has risen to 4,386.