Spain is in contact with Ethiopian authorities, international organizations and other embassies in the region. “Search for a coordinated solution” This allows for the release of 18 Spanish tourists stranded in northern Ethiopia due to armed conflict.
Foreign sources detailed that the Spanish embassy in Addis Ababa is in the United States. “constant contact” The Spanish are stranded in the Amhara region and are trying to coordinate a safe exit from the area.
Since Friday, August 4, a state of emergency has been in effect in the Amhara region due to the extreme situation of insecurity, especially in the Amhara cities. Lalibela, Gondar, Debre Tabot, Bahir Dar, Adis Zemen and its surroundings.
For this reason Ministry of Foreign Affairss advised all travelers to avoid traveling in the area and to stay at their hotel and contact the embassy if they are there.
airports Lalibela, Gondar and Desse they remain inoperative and road communications are constantly clogged.
group 18 Spanish Surprised by gunfights between the state security forces and the Fano militia, he stays in a hostel where they took shelter.
These militias are a heterogeneous armed group collaborating with Turkish troops. Amhara during the last war Tiger until their relations deteriorated due to disagreements over the management of regional security.
One of the trapped people declared to TVE that they were full. crossfire zone Between the factions, gunfire is heard every hour and the streets are barricaded.
The area is one of the most touristic areas in Ethiopia, so in different places, especially quite French and Italian.
Spanish tourists were following routes with Kananga, a Barcelona-based company that organizes truck routes in the surrounding area. 30 countries in Africa.
A spokesperson for Kananga, the company that organized the trip, told EFE that the group “adequate” water and foodand they are in good condition.
The spokesperson appointed by the company announced that he was in. “permanent contact” with travelers and with Spanish guides as well as the Spanish embassy who advise against giving any details about the group or their situation for security reasons.