Thailand’s cabinet ministers are visiting China to meet with a select group of Uyghurs deported last month. The meeting will involve only five of the 40 deportees, which has drawn international criticism regarding potential human rights violations. The Thai government defends its actions as necessary to maintain relations with China, despite calls from Western nations for accountability and offers to resettle the deportees.
A delegation from Thailand, including cabinet ministers, is currently en route to the Xinjiang region of China to engage with a select group of Uyghurs deported last month. Out of the 40 individuals sent back, only five will be available for the meeting, as confirmed by government sources. This action took place on February 27 and has been met with severe international criticism, particularly from United Nations human rights experts and Western nations who expressed concern over potential risks of torture for the Uyghurs upon their return.
The deportation sparked condemnation from various countries, including the United States, which has imposed visa sanctions on certain unnamed Thai officials involved. The European Parliament has also voiced its disapproval and urged discussions on using free trade negotiations to deter similar actions in the future. Rights organizations allege systematic abuses against the Uyghurs, a Muslim minority in the Xinjiang region, while China denies any claims of mistreatment and accuses Western entities of spreading misinformation.
The Thai delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechachai and Justice Minister Taweee Sodswong, flew to Kashi and is accompanied by senior military officials and members of the Thai media. A spokesperson for the government, Jirayu Houngsub, indicated that the group will receive a briefing from a representative of the Xinjiang autonomous region before visiting the Uyghurs. They are expected to return to Thailand by Thursday, and the government has reportedly received assurances from China regarding the well-being of the repatriated individuals.
Mr. Phumtham clarified that the delegation intends to meet five of the recently returned Uyghurs, along with one individual from a previous deportation incident involving Uyghurs who fled China in 2014. Amidst international scrutiny, the Thai government aims to demonstrate transparency in its actions, asserting that no hidden agenda exists regarding the treatment of the deported individuals.
On a related note, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning categorized the Thai delegation’s visit as a routine aspect of the strong bilateral relations between Thailand and China. Reports have emerged suggesting that the United States and Canada offered to resettle the Uyghurs sent back to China. However, Thailand has reportedly received no formal offers and remains cautious of potential consequences from Beijing if it were to decide against the deportation, as noted by Russ Jalichandra, the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs.
In summary, the Thai delegation’s visit to the Xinjiang region highlights ongoing international concern regarding the treatment of deported Uyghurs. The meeting with only a fraction of the deported individuals and the resultant backlash from Western nations emphasize the complex nature of Thailand’s diplomatic relations with China. Despite assurances from Beijing, the controversy surrounding the deportation reflects broader issues of human rights and international responsibility. Thailand’s actions and communications suggest a deliberate attempt to mitigate diplomatic tensions while navigating sensitive human rights discussions.
Original Source: www.bangkokpost.com
