Vice Foreign Minister Ras Chaleechan declared that no foreign nations have requested to accept the Uyghurs detained in Thailand over the past 11 years. His comments were made in the context of international criticism following their repatriation to China. He emphasized that resettlement must be addressed officially, noting the challenges in maintaining diplomatic relations with China.
Thailand’s Vice Foreign Minister Ras Chaleechan has asserted that no foreign government has formally requested to accept Uyghurs detained in Thailand. His remarks follow criticism from opposition figures and human rights activists who claimed that several nations expressed interest in receiving the Uyghurs who had been held for 11 years prior to their repatriation to China on Thursday.
Ras defended the Thai government’s actions, stating in a recent social media post that no legitimate request was ever made to the Foreign Ministry regarding the resettlement of the Uyghurs. He specifically mentioned that the only request for resettlement occurred 11 years ago, potentially referencing Turkey, when a group of Uyghurs was accepted after their unlawful entry into Thailand.
On Thursday, 40 Uyghurs were repatriated to China after an extensive detention period. This decision has drawn significant condemnation from organizations such as the UNHCR and various Western governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, who fear that the returning Uyghurs may face persecution.
Ras emphasized that any future resettlement would need to follow formal procedures, requiring government-to-government negotiation through official channels, rather than informal appeals via non-governmental organizations or entities like the UNHCR.
He acknowledged that the lack of willingness from other countries to accept the Uyghurs could be understood, noting that many nations are keen to maintain positive relations with China, even if it means avoiding actions that could strain diplomatic ties. Ras articulated that issues surrounding refugee acceptance are sensitive and can influence a government’s popularity.
In summary, Vice Minister Ras Chaleechan reiterated that no foreign government has formally sought to accept the Uyghurs detained in Thailand. The repatriation has incited international criticism, yet Ras maintains that diplomatic relations with China play a significant role in countries’ decisions against accepting these refugees. Ultimately, any resettlement efforts would need to adhere to official governmental dialogues rather than informal requests.
Original Source: www.nationthailand.com
