Thailand’s Vice Foreign Minister, Ras Chaleechan, stated that no foreign government has formally requested to accept Uyghurs detained for 11 years before their repatriation to China. His remarks respond to allegations from critics who claimed other nations showed interest in providing refuge for the Uyghurs, reflecting concerns about potential persecution upon their return to China. Ras underscored that any requests for resettlement must be submitted through official government channels.
On Sunday, Thailand’s Vice Foreign Minister Ras Chaleechan affirmed that no foreign government has officially expressed a desire to accept the Uyghurs who were detained for 11 years before being repatriated to China. This assertion came in response to accusations from opposition members and human rights activists, who believed other countries were willing to allow the detained Uyghurs refuge, fearing that rejection may provoke China.
Ras Chaleechan stated on his Facebook account, “no such country exists” that has made a formal request to offer refuge to the remaining Uyghurs. The Thai government deported 40 Uyghurs to China on Thursday, igniting critiques from the UNHCR and various Western governments concerned over the potential persecution the Uyghurs may face in China.
The Vice Minister noted that, while one country had made a request regarding some detained Uyghurs years ago—seemingly referring to Turkey—since then, no formal requests have been received from any other country, apart from China. Moreover, he elucidated that such requests should be communicated through government channels, specifically the Foreign Ministry, rather than through NGOs or the UNHCR.
Human Rights Watch has previously criticized Thailand’s lengthy detention of the Uyghurs, emphasizing that they should have been reunited with their families in Turkey. Ras acknowledged that the lack of interest from other nations may stem from diplomatic concerns with China, stating that accepting refugees could complicate international relations and affect a government’s domestic support.
In summary, Vice Foreign Minister Ras Chaleechan’s statements reject claims that foreign governments have requested refuge for Uyghurs detained in Thailand. He emphasized the absence of formal requests from other nations, citing the desire of many countries to maintain amicable relations with China as a potential reason for their reluctance. The repatriation of the detained Uyghurs has drawn significant criticism, highlighting ongoing concerns over human rights.
Original Source: www.nationthailand.com
