Skopje, 9 February 2023 (MIA) – The nine Macedonian citizens who were in Turkey during the earthquake returned to North Macedonia on Thursday morning. In a press release, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said they were in good health.

The group includes eight students and their teacher, who stayed in Turkey as part of the Erasmus+ programme.

As soon as the group was identified, a diplomat from the Embassy in Anakara was immediately dispatched to the area, along with an additional vehicle, to assist in evacuating the group from the area until they were able to head home. Following an initial medical treatment of two students who were injured, the group was first sent to Ankara, and then to Istanbul where they were provided with accommodation, additional medical care and rest.

For the time being, the Embassy in Ankara and the Consulate General in Istanbul have not reported receiving any further information about other Macedonian nationals who are possibly in distress, or who need assistance. The diplomatic and consular missions remain open for any assistance as needed.

The Foreign Ministry notes that diplomatic and consular missions in Turkey are available 24/7 for all inquiries regarding citizens impacted by the earthquake on the following hotlines: +905394569710 in Ankara, +905456149777 in Istanbul, as well as MFA’s +SOS in Skopje +38975273732. ad/nn/