Abducted Chinese workers return home

 

9 Chinese workers who were kidnapped eleven days ago in Sudan, and released Tuesday, arrived safely in Beijing on Thursday. They are now on their way to their respective home provinces, some to Shandong and others to Sichuan.

It was a smooth landing after a harrowing experience.

The 29 Chinese workers were part of a group working on a multi-million dollar road project in Sudan’s South Kordofan state. The region has seen numerous clashes between the Sudan’s government forces and the rebels the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-North for over the last several months. They were abducted in late January, and returned to Beijing Thursday afternoon.

Due to the efforts of China, Sudan and the International Red Cross, they were freed after eleven days of being held hostage.

29 Chinese workers who were kidnapped eleven days ago in Sudan, and released Tuesday, arrived safely in Beijing.

They safely arrived in Kenyan capital of Nairobi on Tuesday, greeted by a task force from the Chinese government and local Chinese diplomats.

On Thursday Morning, the workers connected through Doha’s capital Qatar, before landing in Beijing.

The strongest feeling was relief.

Sun Shiwei, released Chinese hostage, said, "Father, Mother, I made it. I’m in good condition. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be back home soon."

Workers also expressed deep gratitude to the government, the embassy and the company.

Although all 29 made home safe, the event raises a tough question: How can the Chinese government keep its nationals safe in a developing continent like Africa?