Number of officials present at airport during PM's foreign trips reduced

The government has decided to reduce the number of officials present at the airport during the Prime Minister's official and state visits abroad and when he returns home. According to the new decision, from now on, only four high-ranking officials will be present at the airport. Earlier, this number was several times more.

On Thursday (February 5), the Cabinet Division issued new instructions regarding the etiquette to be followed during the Prime Minister's foreign trips and return to the country and sent a letter to the concerned.

The letter stated that the most senior cabinet minister, the Chief Whip of the National Assembly, the Cabinet Secretary and the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister will be present at the airport during the Prime Minister's visit.

Earlier on August 28, 2024, the interim government had issued detailed instructions regarding the etiquette on the occasion of the chief adviser's foreign trips and return. The directive mentioned the presence of several senior officials, including senior members of the Advisery Council, the Foreign Affairs Adviser, the Joint Adviser to the Office of the Chief Adviser, the Head of the Diplomatic Corps, the Head of Mission of the host country, the Chiefs of the three services, secretaries of various ministries, and the heads of the police and intelligence agencies.

The latest decision has canceled the previous directive and the protocol has been redefined in a limited manner.