Cambodia expresses optimism about US visa ban considerations due to its cooperation with US authorities regarding deportation. The Trump administration may introduce three categories of restrictions, with Cambodia on the least severe Yellow list. The Kingdom is expected to address US concerns within 60 days to avoid escalated restrictions while currently facing deportation issues for 1,747 citizens.
In light of potential new US visa restrictions, a representative from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed optimism regarding the Kingdom’s standing. This confidence stems from Cambodia’s full cooperation concerning Cambodian citizens subject to US removal orders. Reportedly, the Trump administration is contemplating travel bans on 43 nations, categorizing these into three levels: Red, Orange, and Yellow, with Cambodia listed among 21 countries designated as Yellow, indicating the least restrictive measures.
The Red category includes 11 nations that would face outright entry bans, including Afghanistan, Iran, and Venezuela, while the Orange category lists countries such as Russia and Myanmar, which will endure heavier visa restrictions. As part of the Yellow category, Cambodia, along with numerous other nations, must address concerns raised by the US within 60 days to prevent being downgraded to a more severe restriction level.
Although specifics regarding the US administration’s concerns remain undisclosed, they likely pertain to the deportation of Cambodian nationals who have committed crimes in the US. Chum Sounry, spokesperson for Cambodia’s foreign ministry, indicated that they are actively pursuing information through diplomatic channels and maintaining full cooperation with the US in facilitating the repatriation of such nationals.
The Cambodian ministry is reportedly collaborating closely with US authorities to expedite interviews and issue necessary travel documents, believing no significant obstacles impede this process. Sounry emphasized Cambodia’s ongoing collaboration and the solid state of bilateral relations, fostering confidence that these proactive measures will be favorably acknowledged by the US. Current figures from November 2024 indicate that 1,747 Cambodians were awaiting deportation, as reported by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In conclusion, Cambodia remains hopeful about its position concerning potential US visa restrictions, citing its full cooperation with US authorities in repatriating Cambodian nationals. The categorization into yellow indicates a less severe status; however, addressing US concerns witin the stipulated timeline is crucial. As diplomatic efforts continue, Cambodia appears poised to maintain amicable relations with the United States, emphasizing the importance of collaborative processes to facilitate repatriation.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
