Bangkok: The Prime Minister received a report this morning from the Thai delegation regarding the recent repatriation of 40 Uighurs back to their homeland, confirming that no rights violations occurred and no legal action would be taken against them. The Secretary-General of the National Security Council, who accompanied them, announced plans to revisit in 15-30 days to follow up on their well-being, noting significant changes in their hometown in Xinjiang Province over the past 11 years. According to Thai News Agency, government spokesman Mr. Jirayu Huangtrakul stated that Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, received the report at approximately 08:30. The Thai delegation included members from the National Security Council, led by Mr. Chatchai Bangchuad, the Royal Thai Police led by Pol. Gen. Kraibhun Trawadsong, and representatives from the Royal Thai Embassy in Beijing. Their mission was to facilitate the return of the Uighurs back to their families, following assurances from the Chinese gover nment regarding their safety and citizenship. The NSC Secretary-General expressed confidence in the ongoing follow-up process, which will take place over the next month to ensure compliance with bilateral agreements. The delegation reported that the Uighurs, part of the '11 Year Mission Possible,' arrived in Kashgar, Xinjiang Province. After receiving health checks, they were divided into groups based on their proximity to Kashgar, with transportation arranged by the Chinese government to return them to their respective hometowns within Xinjiang. Mr. Chatchai Bangchuad and his team observed the return journey about 140 kilometers from Kashgar, witnessing the Uighurs' safe return to their families. The returnees expressed joy, some meeting new family members for the first time. Many thanked the Thai government for their care over the past decade. The delegation also visited those still under medical care at the Jiaxi District Hospital, where they participated in religious ceremonies and provided halal food. Mr. Chatchai emphasized the strong rapport between the Uighurs and the Immigration Bureau officers, which facilitated a smooth repatriation process. He highlighted Thailand's decade-long negotiations with China to ensure the safety of the Uighurs and secure the right for Thai officials to inspect post-repatriation conditions. The Chinese government's recent official guarantee and cultural recognition of Uighur identity during the Chinese New Year in Bangkok further solidified these efforts. The Thai delegation will return this Sunday and report to the Prime Minister within a week. They will continue to monitor the Uighurs' freedom and rights in their homeland, with a second inspection visit planned within 15 to 30 days.
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