Philenews

Stranded in Thailand: Anxiety for 9 Young Cypriots – State Seeks Solutions – Alexander Jiang Offers Mediation

Published March 4, 2026, 12:15
Stranded in Thailand: Anxiety for 9 Young Cypriots – State Seeks Solutions – Alexander Jiang Offers Mediation

Nine 23-year-olds from Paphos are stranded in Thailand after the closure of airspace and airports in the Middle East due to the war in Iran. The government is examining ways to repatriate them. Paphos municipal councilor, Alexander Jiang, has offered to facilitate their return, proposing free air transport to Shanghai and hotel accommodation until an alternative route to Cyprus can be found. Mr. Jiang, having close ties to China, stated that he can take over the procedures for the safe transport of the students to China, from where they can return to Europe via other air routes. He has already spoken with Government Spokesman, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, who informed him that the government is studying the issue. The students are anxious, as previous attempts by their families to repatriate them have been unsuccessful. Mr. Jiang's offer represents an alternative solution, as direct flights from Thailand have been disrupted due to the geopolitical situation.