The Egyptian Embassy in Greece announced on Wednesday that it has initiated the necessary procedures to repatriate the remains of 14 Egyptian citizens who perished when an irregular migration vessel capsized off the coast of Crete.
In a formal statement, the Embassy emphasized its unwavering commitment to returning the victims to their homeland at the earliest possible opportunity.
This effort, the mission noted, is central to its “dedication to providing solace to the grieving families and alleviating the profound suffering” caused by this tragedy.
Response to bereaved families
The announcement comes as a direct response to an outpouring of inquiries from the victims’ families.
The Embassy confirmed it has received “numerous communications from the next of kin seeking clarity on the timeline for repatriation and requesting continuous updates on any further developments.”
The diplomatic mission further asserted that it is maintaining a vigilant, around-the-clock watch over the aftermath of the incident.
It has intensified its coordination with all relevant Greek authorities to expedite the administrative and legal formalities required to ensure that the deceased are returned to their loved ones without delay.
Details of the incident
This development follows an official disclosure by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, which confirmed the loss of 14 nationals.
The ill-fated vessel—carrying 34 migrants of various nationalities—had departed from a neighboring country toward Greece on December 7 before succumbing to the sea near the island of Crete.
Ministerial directives
Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has personally instructed the Egyptian Mission in Greece to engage at the highest diplomatic levels with the Greek government.
His directives prioritize both the swift conclusion of the repatriation process and the provision of all possible support and assistance to the survivors of the tragedy.
