As of May 12, 55 thousand Uzbeks wishing to return to their homeland have been registered on the online list (compiled by the consular department of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Moscow).
Similar lists are compiled in the oblasts of Russia by the Consulates General of Uzbekistan, which include approximately 10 thousand people. According to the Foreign Ministry, on May 11-12, 14 thousand fellow citizens appealed to the embassy with a request to assist them in returning home.
“At present, all the forces of the embassy have been directed to ensure the speedy repatriation of citizens of Uzbekistan from Russia within the framework of their capabilities and powers. An Operational Staff, as well as a separate group for permanent work with compatriots have been formed,” the ministerial press service said.
It is noted that citizens with health problems, patients, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, as well as citizens, who purchased tickets for previously canceled regular flights, will be given priority for charter flights.
In addition, in recent days, fellow citizens wishing to fly back to Uzbekistan on charter flights began to gather near the embassy and consular department, which creates a high risk of contracting various diseases, including the COVID-2019 infection.
At the same time, the embassy keeps a record of citizens for repatriation from Russia exclusively within the framework of its consular district (Central Federal District). Compatriots located in the regions of Russia can apply to the corresponding Consulates General of Uzbekistan.
“The embassy understands and shares the concern of Uzbeks residing in Russia in the current situation with the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, as well as their desire to return to their homeland, families, relatives and friends,” the message notes.
The diplomatic mission is aware of the financial difficulties faced by compatriots in Russia, in connection with which it began to pay one-off financial assistance to needy citizens as part of the “Mehr” project.
