MEA advisory to scribes covering unrest in Egypt

New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) Amid reports that some foreignjournalists covering the political turmoil in Cairo have beenattacked, the External Affairs Ministry today issued anadvisory for those intending to cover the protests, includingobtaining the State Information Service accreditation.

"It is understood that around 3000 foreign and Egyptiancorrespondents are currently in Cairo to file/film stories anda number of them are without suitable accreditation. A numberof journalists, including some Indian journalists, have gotinto trouble as a result," the Ministry said.

The Ministry noted that a number of Indian journalistshave travelled in recent days to Egypt to cover thedevelopments and said it was learnt that more are planning avisit in the coming days.

Even though the resources of the Embassy of India inCairo are under pressure, they have been extending assistanceand facilitation to the Indian journalists.

"However, to avoid being detained or being sent back byEgyptian authorities, it is requested that the following mayplease be borne in mind: carry your identity card and orpassport at all times and keep a copy of your documents safelyin the hotel room," it said.

According to some reports reaching here, a cameraman of aprivate TV channel here was detained and then let off whileshooting the protests in Cairo.

Further, the MEA advised the journalists to carrysufficient foreign currency and take care of their personalsafety.