The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that 1,971 Ethiopian nationals have been granted a royal pardon in Saudi Arabia following sustained diplomatic efforts to assist citizens in distress.
According to the Ministry, these individuals had been undergoing various legal processes and faced judicial sentencing in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry confirmed that the pardoned citizens are currently being repatriated to Ethiopia through a series of scheduled flights.
The Ministry’s spokesperson underscored that the safety, protection, and consular support of Ethiopian citizens abroad remain the government's top priority.
The success of this humanitarian pardon is attributed to high-level dialogues between the leadership of both nations, as well as the tireless efforts of the Ethiopian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah.
The Ministry emphasized that working closely with Saudi authorities on the legal and judicial matters concerning Ethiopian detainees remains a central pillar of its foreign policy.
This humanitarian breakthrough, officials noted, reflects the long-standing bilateral cooperation and the robust consular engagement between the two nations.
Despite this milestone, the government reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its diplomatic outreach to protect the rights and safety of remaining Ethiopians facing difficulties in Saudi Arabia. Officials stated that all available diplomatic and consular channels would be utilized to seek sustainable solutions for the remaining cases.
The recent development follows a period of heightened concern regarding the welfare of Ethiopian nationals in the Kingdom. Diplomatic relations were tested earlier this year when seven Ethiopians convicted of drug-related offenses were executed.
However, through proactive diplomatic negotiations, the Ethiopian government successfully secured a royal pardon for 343 Ethiopian prisoners earlier this year.
Despite these efforts, Amnesty International has reported that at least 63 Ethiopians currently detained at the Khamis Mushait prison remain at imminent risk of execution, highlighting the urgency of the ongoing diplomatic missions.
The Ethiopian government is currently overseeing the repatriation process, ensuring that returnees receive the necessary support to reintegrate into society.
Officials expressed optimism that this diplomatic achievement will serve as a model for addressing the plight of other Ethiopians in the Kingdom and provide momentum for future humanitarian interventions.
