A total of 176 Nepali nationals stranded in the transit area of Brazil's São Paulo Airport are safe, with preparations underway to provide humanitarian assistance as needed, according to the Nepali Embassy in Brazil.

In a press release issued today, the Embassy acknowledged reports that around 700 foreigners, including Nepalis, are stranded in transit at the airport and stated that it is on standby to provide humanitarian aid to the Nepali nationals.

The Embassy noted a growing trend of individuals traveling to South American countries, including Brazil, from various regions in an attempt to enter the United States illegally. It has been frequently reported that Nepali youths are falling prey to organized human traffickers in this region.

Many have suffered unforeseen hardships and incurred significant financial losses. The press release also highlighted that the Government of Brazil has implemented a new rule requiring passport holders from certain countries, including Nepal, to obtain a visa before entering Brazil.

The release further stated, "From now on, Nepali travelers will need to fly directly to their destination country through Brazil. If they fail to do so, they will be sent back on the same plane and will not be recognized as refugees at the airport."

Published on: 28 August 2024 | The Himalayan Times