Bangkok: Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, has expressed his belief that while the United States will implement stricter visa policies for Thai officials linked to the repatriation of 40 Uighurs to China, it will not go as far as suspending the visas. Thawee revealed that immigration officers were on the flight to China to confirm the identities of the Uighurs, as they have been familiar with them for over a decade.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Thawee discussed plans to accompany a delegation to Xinjiang, China, alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai. The visit aims to monitor the conditions and well-being of the Uighurs returned from Thailand to China. He confirmed that the decision to deport the Uighurs was influenced by complaints from various sectors, notably the Immigration Bureau, highlighting potential violations of laws against torture and enforced disappearances in Thailand over the past ten years. The Thai government is working to address this issue, which was a significant factor in their decision to return the Uighurs to China. He explained that under repatriation laws, if there is a belief that the individuals will face torture or cruel acts, Thailand would be at fault. While in Thailand, the government risks committing a crime, yet upon their return to China, the Chinese government provides assurances through diplomatic channels that they will not be tor tured.
When questioned about potential pressures leading to the deportation decision, Pol. Col. Thawee emphasized humanitarian principles and legal constraints, noting that releasing the Uighurs would violate Thai law. The committee concluded that returning them would not result in torture or murder, affirming Thailand's sovereignty and social responsibility.
Concerns about verifying the identities of the Uighurs returned to China were addressed by Pol. Col. Thawee, who stated that immigration officers familiar with the Uighurs for a decade confirmed their identities. The Chinese government facilitated this by providing the National Security Council with visual evidence for verification. This process contributed to the decision to return the 40 Uighurs, with the Immigration Bureau affirming their recognition of all individuals involved.
Regarding the potential impact of the delegation's findings on Western perceptions, Thawee noted Thailand's recognition as a UN Convention on Enforced Disappearances party. He emphasized that the Thai government's decision was based on respecting Uighur human dignity rather than favoring any nation.
In response to whether evidence of the Uighurs' safety could influence the US's stance on visa restrictions, Thawee suggested that the issue might extend beyond the current visit to China. He stressed the need for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to foster understanding, respecting each country's perspective. The US Embassy in Thailand indicated a strict approach towards officials involved in the deportation, though it is not a complete visa ban. The Thai government has faced criticism for the Uighurs' treatment while in the country.