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MFA advises Singaporeans to defer non-essential travel to Chile, Lebanon

Anti-government demonstrators burn garbage and furniture in a barricade during a march in Santiago, Chile, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2019. Protests in the country have spilled over into a fifth day, even after President Sebastian Pinera cancelled the subway fare hike that prompted rioting, arson and violent clashes that have almost paralyzed the country. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)
Anti-government demonstrators burn garbage and furniture in a barricade during a march in Santiago, Chile. Protests in the country have spilled over into a fifth day, even after President Sebastian Pinera cancelled the subway fare hike that prompted rioting, arson and violent clashes that have almost paralyzed the country. (PHOTO: AP/Rodrigo Abd)

SINGAPORE — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has issued travel advisories for Singaporeans to defer non-essential travel to both Chile and Lebanon.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday (23 October), MFA noted that a state of emergency was declared in the Chilean capital of Santiago on 18 October due to student protests, and it is expected to last 15 days.

State of emergency in Chile extended to other cities

The state of emergency has been extended to cities in the north and south of the capital, including Antofagasta, Valparaiso, Valdivia, Chillan, Talca, Temuco, and Punta Arenas. The affected areas may be subjected to curfews in the evening.

MFA said that Singaporeans currently in the affected areas are advised to exercise caution, stay vigilant, monitor developments through local media and heed the instructions of the local authorities.

It also advised them to avoid reported locations of protests and to stay indoors in a safe location. They should also stay in touch with family and friends, so that they know they are safe.

Singaporeans who are travelling to Chile are encouraged to eRegister with the MFA. Those who require consular assistance can contact the Honorary Consulate-General in Santiago or the MFA Duty Office at:

  • Singapore Honorary Consulate-General in Santiago – Telephone: +56-2-2787-6034/+65-6379-8000 (after hours) Email: singapore@alessandri.cl

  • MFA Duty Office (24 hours) – Telephone: +65-63798800/8855 Email: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

Large-scale demonstrations in Lebanon

Meanwhile, MFA also issued a travel advisory on Lebanon, with large-scale demonstrations taking place in the capital Beirut, and cities such as Tripoli, Tyre, Sidon and Baalbak. With the demonstrations expected to continue, Singaporeans are advised to defer non-essential travel to the Middle Eastern country.

Those already in Lebanon should take all necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.

As the demonstrations may result in transport disruptions and flight delays, Singaporeans are advised to check with the relevant airlines on flight status and cater for additional traveling time.

Singaporeans in Lebanon are also encouraged to eRegister with the MFA to enable the ministry to contact them should the need arise. Those who require consular assistance can contact the MFA Duty Office (24hrs) or the Singapore Honorary Consulate-General in Beirut at:

  • Singapore Honorary Consulate-General in Beirut – Telephone: +961-1-334-335, 200-786, 200-787 Email: singaporeconsulate@cyberia.net.lb

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