Thailand Defends Uyghur Repatriation Amid US Criticism

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Thai government finds itself in the spotlight as it counters international criticism surrounding its recent repatriation of 40 Uyghurs to China. Responding to the US decision to impose visa sanctions on Thai officials involved, Bangkok has emphasised its adherence to humanitarian principles and its historical role as a refuge for those fleeing persecution.

 

In a statement issued over the weekend, Thai authorities stressed assurances from China guaranteeing the safety of the deported Uyghurs. The Thai government committed to monitoring the well-being of these individuals, striving to maintain transparency and accountability in its dealings.

 

The US Department of State, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, announced visa restrictions targeting current and former Thai officials deemed complicit in the February 27 deportations.

 

This move marks the latest chapter in a series of sanctions the US has imposed on Thailand, which have previously included military aid suspension and specific penalties against individuals and companies for various infractions.

 

In the domestic arena, opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut urged the Thai government to align its actions with international human rights standards. He advocated for a balanced approach in dealing with global powers, particularly the US and China, to avoid further diplomatic fallout or punitive measures.

 

Speculation surrounds Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai regarding their potential inclusion in the US sanctions list, though official comments from their offices remain forthcoming.

 

The European Parliament has also voiced strong criticism, censuring Thailand over both the Uyghur deportations and other human rights concerns. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has suggested diplomatic engagement with the EU could foster better understanding and potentially mitigate tensions.

 

In response to international scrutiny, Thailand is reportedly planning an official visit to China to observe the treatment of the repatriated Uyghurs. Opposition voices have called for such visits to include independent observers, ensuring transparency and credibility in the findings.

 

Panitan Wattanayagorn, an expert in international relations, has advised the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs to press China for information about the whereabouts and conditions of the repatriated Uyghurs.

 

Sharing these details with both the European Parliament and the US could alleviate some of the international concern and restore confidence in Thailand's commitment to human rights.

 

As Thailand navigates this complex diplomatic terrain, the government's actions will be watched closely by both domestic audiences and the international community, with significant implications for its global standing, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-17

 

 

[dinsdale]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

Thai authorities stressed assurances from China guaranteeing the safety of the deported Uyghurs.

If the CCP says something you know it's true. Xi is 100% trustworthy. I still think there's an underlying  monetary aspect to this be it a monetary threat from Beijing or a handout. Remember this happened just after the puppet PM got back from her China visit.

[JoseThailand]

In Putin's footsteps..

[JoseThailand]

Kudos to the US for taking action and drawing attention to the atrocities committed by China and its accomplices

[wozzlegummich]

Even someone as foriegn-policy inept as the Orange man thinks this was bad. Thailand had to yield to their Chinese overlords, now they are back pedalling to try and save face.

[JoePai]

Trying (yet again) to defend the indefensible 

[JimHuaHin]

Thailand's international credibility takes another hit.

 

Why are the Thai ultra-nationalists not complaining about or demonstrating against the Government for bringing Thailand's reputation into international (bar China) disrepute?

 

Where are you Khun Sondhi?

[Aussie999]

"In a statement issued over the weekend, Thai authorities stressed assurances from China guaranteeing the safety of the deported Uyghurs. The Thai government committed to monitoring the well-being of these individuals, striving to maintain transparency and accountability in its dealings."

 

I think we all know this is just BS. Thailand bends over for China, it's a simple as that.. Thailand has no morals, or backbone.. and yet still holds a seat in the UN Human Rights Council. Shame on the UN, which also bends over for China, the US, and Russia.

[Tropicalevo]

And the lies trip effortlessly off the government's tongues.

[JBChiangRai]

You can always trust the Thai government to take a morally bankrupt decision, particularly when it’s profitable.