Panaji: The Pramod Sawant-led government in Goa is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Gulf region and is in touch with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of the Goan diaspora working there, the Chief Minister informed the Assembly on Monday.
Replying to a calling attention motion moved by BJP MLAs Michael Lobo and Ulhas Tuenkar during the ongoing Budget session, Sawant said the state government is maintaining a cautious watch on developments following the conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran that began on February 28.
Sawant told the House that Israel and the United States had launched coordinated attacks on Iranian facilities and infrastructure, which have impacted several countries in the West Asian region, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.
He said a significant Goan diaspora resides in these Gulf countries, with the largest concentration in the UAE.
The government of Goa is concerned about the evolving situation in the Arabian Gulf and is maintaining a cautious watch while liaising with the Ministry of External Affairs, Sawant said.
Clarifying the reference made in the motion, the Chief Minister said there are no “Goan nationals” in the Gulf region but members of the Goan NRI and diaspora community reside there.
Sawant assured the House that all possible support would be extended to the Goan diaspora through coordination with the MEA and Indian missions in the Gulf to ensure their safety and security.
Admitting that the situation remains volatile, he said there was no need for panic as the situation is currently under control and some flights and transport facilities remain operational for the movement of people from Gulf countries.
The Indian embassies in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain have already issued advisories for Indian nationals, he added.
Sawant further said the state government is awaiting directions from the Government of India regarding issues related to essential supplies such as fuel and LPG, or evacuation of Indians from the Gulf region if required.
