New Delhi: India on Friday advised its citizens in France, Italy, and Belgium to remain vigilant and stay away from areas where protests are taking place. India said its embassies in these countries are closely monitoring developments and are in regular contact with the Indian community.
Addressing the biweekly media briefing in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged Indian citizens to follow the advisories issued by local authorities.
Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have embassies in France, Italy, and Belgium. They are closely monitoring developments there. They are in regular contact with community members. Indian citizens in these countries where protests are taking place are advised to remain vigilant and exercise appropriate caution when venturing out. They are also advised to stay away from areas where protests are taking place.” They should also follow local advisories issued by the government.
He further stated that our embassies in France and Italy have also issued advisories for their citizens, and they must adhere to these advisories. For our part, we are committed to the welfare and safety of our citizens abroad.
On Wednesday, the Indian Embassy in France issued travel and security advisories, urging its citizens and those traveling to the Western European country to remain vigilant as protests against rising inflation escalated into violent clashes.
These clashes began in late September over poor school conditions and a shortage of teachers. The movement quickly escalated into anti-government protests across the country, fueled by rising inflation, high fuel prices, public sector budget cuts, and criticism of President Emmanuel Macron’s administration.
The Indian Embassy in France stated that in light of recent developments in France and the local curfew, please remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions. Please avoid large gatherings and crowded places where demonstrations are taking place, and follow the instructions and advice issued by local French authorities.
