The first Italians evacuated from Sudan after the worsening of the local political and social crisis have returned to Italy.

They landed shortly after 8.25pm at Ciampino military airport aboard an Air Force KC-767 aircraft.

Also with them were soldiers from the Joint Evacuation Task Force (JETF) - a Defence team also made up of Special Forces - who managed the evacuation operations from Sudan on the ground. During the night, a second aircraft, a C-130 with other evacuated civilians on board, arrived. The two flights resulted in the recovery of 83 fellow nationals.

"All Italian civilians have been rescued", said Minister Crosetto, emphasising that the evacuation from Sudan was a "very complex and risky operation".

"Defence", said the Minister, "has used all available resources to secure the Italians present in Sudan and has always worked in close coordination with the Prime Minister's Office and the Foreign Ministry. To the silent and constant work of our soldiers of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Carabinieri goes the praise and gratitude of the entire Nation. Professionalism, reliability and an extraordinary sense of duty and service, which we all recognise".

The Minister then congratulated the men and women of Defence: "The Italian Armed Forces have done an exceptional job. Italy is proud of you!"

There were more than 200 Italian soldiers engaged on the orders of Defence Minister Guido Crosetto in this complex and delicate operation carried out in close cooperation also with European partners.

The evacuation operation was planned and directed by the Command for Joint Operations (CJO) headed by Lt.Gen. Francesco Paolo Figliuolo, which also ensured close coordination with similar organisations in allied and friendly countries.