The first voluntary return train departed today, carrying 1,100 Sudanese passengers bound for Aswan, from where they will continue to various cities across Sudan.
Sudanese Ambassador to Cairo, Lieutenant General (Eng.) Imad al-Din Adawi, spoke to reporters at Ramses Station while seeing off the travelers. He announced the resumption of voluntary return trips via Train No. 41, which consists of ten carriages, noting that this specific journey is provided free of charge by the General Intelligence and Security Service.
Praise for Egyptian Hospitality
The Ambassador praised the Egyptian people for their gracious hosting of the Sudanese people. He noted that the historic Ramses Railway Station has received many Sudanese citizens returning home, especially following the major victories achieved by the “valiant Armed Forces and their supporting units.” He emphasized the great sacrifices made to elevate the beloved homeland.
Adawi added that the path has been cleared for the return of all sectors of the Sudanese people. He remarked that in Egypt, Sudanese citizens are treated as “brothers and honored guests,” expressing gratitude to President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for his continuous directives and follow-up. He also commended:
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Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly.
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The Director of Ramses Station.
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Minister of Transport, Lt. Gen. Kamel al-Wazir, for directing ministry staff to facilitate the transport of those wishing to return.
Resumption of Free Trips
The Ambassador revealed that free trips will continue sequentially, supported by the National Intelligence Service. He also lauded the previous efforts of the Defense Industries System and the “Hope Committee for Voluntary Return”—a national popular committee tasked with this major mission, supported by numerous volunteers and media professionals.
He expressed his hope that the return to the homeland would continue so that citizens could engage in reconstruction now that the “Armed Forces have preserved the land and honor.” He noted that the train remains the best means of transport for Sudanese citizens returning home.
“One People”
Dr. Yasser Abdullah, Director of Ramses Station (Mahattat Misr), stated that the Sudanese and Egyptian people have been “one hand” since ancient times. He expressed deep respect for the Sudanese people, noting that their departure is felt emotionally by Egyptians, some of whom were present at the station to say goodbye.
He highlighted the Minister of Transport’s directives for full readiness, facilitating return procedures, and providing total support within the station. He confirmed that the 1,000-kilometer journey would be closely monitored until arrival and announced that an extra carriage had been added specifically for passengers’ luggage.
Diplomatic Efforts
Qaribullah Abdulaziz, a consultant at the Embassy, confirmed that the Embassy is exerting every effort to ensure the comfort of travelers throughout the stages of the journey—from Cairo to Aswan, then to Wadi Halfa, and finally to other Sudanese states.
He stressed that these returns help alleviate significant pressures and noted that media efforts are helping the Sudanese community understand the laws regulating foreign residency. He concluded by thanking the Egyptian government and people for their hospitality during a “difficult and sensitive time,” while reiterating that the General Intelligence Service’s sponsorship of this trip is a major initiative aimed at protecting the Sudanese people and ensuring their safe return home.
