On March 24, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan announced the release and return of 18 Azerbaijani citizens from the crews of the vessels CMS Pahlavan, CMS Igid, and CMS-3, who had been detained by Eritrea since November 7 of the previous year.

This outcome followed extensive negotiations and joint coordination by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, and the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Closed Joint-Stock Company, in accordance with the instructions of the President of Azerbaijan.

During the crew’s detention in Eritrea, consular assistance was provided through the Azerbaijani Embassy in Ethiopia, ensuring that their needs were adequately addressed. Azerbaijan also expressed sincere gratitude to the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Eritrea for its invaluable support throughout the process.

Notably, on November 7, 2024, the Azerbaijani vessels CMS Pahlavan, CMS Igid, and CMS-3, operated by Caspian Marine Services B.V., entered Eritrean territorial waters due to deteriorating weather conditions while en route from the Suez Canal to Abu Dhabi. Despite attempts to communicate with Eritrean port authorities, no response was received. Upon entering the 12-mile territorial zone, Eritrean authorities deemed the entry unauthorized and detained the vessels. Among the crew members, 18 were Azerbaijani citizens. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs promptly engaged with Eritrean officials through diplomatic channels to resolve the situation.