This Public Announcement is being issued on April 09, 2007 to update American citizens on the security situation in Guinea.  American citizens should continue to be cautious with regard to travel to and in Guinea, although the political climate is much improved.  Ordered Departure for family members of U.S. Government employees has been canceled.  This Public Announcement supersedes the Travel Warning dated February 12, 2007, and expires on July 5, 2007.

There has been no unrest or street violence in Guinea since February 25, when the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) brokered an agreement between the government of Guinea and the unions that resulted in the suspension of the general strike that had been underway since January 10.  A state of siege declared by President Conte on February 12 expired by its terms February 23, when Guinea’s National Assembly refused to renew it.  On February 26, President Conte named a new Prime Minister, Lansana Kouyate.  On March 28, President Conte approved a new government that has received widespread public support.

Despite these improvements, the situation in Guinea remains fragile.  Americans planning to visit Guinea should exercise caution, and should check with the U.S. Embassy before traveling in the interior of the country. The Department of State has lifted ordered departure of U.S. Mission eligible family members effective April 10.  The U.S. Embassy is open at full staff, and during normal business hours. 

For Information on How to Protect Yourself, Your Family, Your Employees, and Your Trips Abroad,
Contact our specialists today.
info@worldwidemedicalplans.com
877-211-3654 or 559-294-0316

Click here for Instant Quotes & Online Purchase
for Global Travel Medical, Accident & Life Insurance

Violent disturbances and destruction have occurred throughout Guinea.  Looting has been widespread as protesters and vandals targeted government buildings and property owned by government officials.  While foreigners, including Americans, are not specifically targeted, they are increasingly targets of opportunity if caught in the open.  Local security forces are unable to guarantee the safety of foreigners.

Because of the continued instability, the Department of State has ordered the departure of U.S. Mission eligible family members.  American citizens are strongly urged to defer all travel to Guinea until the situation stabilizes; American citizens in Guinea are urged to depart.  The U.S. Embassy will remain open for emergency services with a limited staff.  The airport remains open at this time though most airlines have cancelled international flights to Guinea.  Those who wish to depart Guinea should do so as flights become available, and should contact the U.S. Embassy's Consular section for further information and assistance.

For Information on How to Protect Yourself, Your Family, Your Employees, and Your Trips Abroad,
Contact our specialists today.
info@worldwidemedicalplans.com
877-211-3654 or 559-294-0316

Click here for Instant Quotes & Online Purchase
for Global Travel Medical, Accident & Life Insurance

U.S. citizens who must travel to Guinea despite this Travel Warning should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings, and other Public Announcements can be found.  Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

Americans living or traveling in Guinea are urged to register with the U.S. Embassy, where they may obtain updated information on travel and security within Guinea.  Security updates are e-mailed to all registered Americans with an e-mail address.  Registration is done online and can be done in advance of travel at https://travelregistration.state.gov.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy in Conakry.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy is located on the Transversale No. 2, Centre Administratif de Koloma opposite the New Radio Station in Ratoma, Conakry, Guinea; telephone +224-30-42-08-62 through 68 or fax +224-30-42-08-71; email consularconakr@state.gov.  The U.S. embassy website is http://conakry.usembassy.gov/index.html.  The Embassy's workweek is Monday through Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.  The American Citizens Services (ACS) unit is open to the public each Tuesday and Friday, except for American and most local holidays.