Bangkok: Thaksin Defends Uyghur Expulsions, Blaming West, China
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra dismissed US visa sanctions imposed on Thai officials, attributing them to a misunderstanding regarding the deportation of at least 40 Uyghurs to China last month. In a Monday statement, Thaksin claimed the US action was based on “outdated information,” asserting the deportation was lawful and compliant with international and humanitarian standards.
The sanctions, targeting unnamed Thai officials involved in the deportation, followed a European Parliament resolution condemning Thailand’s actions and its enforcement of the lese majeste law. This law criminalizes criticism of the monarchy and has raised international concerns about freedom of expression. These issues have intensified international scrutiny of Thailand.
Thaksin argued that the Uyghurs, a predominantly Muslim Turkic ethnic group facing persecution in China, had been detained in Thailand for illegal entry for over a decade, with no other country offering asylum. He highlighted the lack of refuge from Western nations, stating, “The US and Europe didn’t offer them shelter either.” He further justified the deportation by claiming China assured that the Uyghurs would not face prosecution upon return and would be reunited with their families. This assertion contradicts widespread reports of human rights abuses against Uyghurs in China, including mass detention, forced labor, and political indoctrination.
Regarding repairing US-Thai relations, Thaksin expressed confidence in existing diplomatic channels. He suggested the US understands the situation’s nuances, attributing the sanctions to the complexities of international politics. He cited the European Union, noting that despite the European Parliament’s condemnation, EU-Thailand free trade talks continue. This, he argued, demonstrates that diplomatic and economic relations can be compartmentalized, and the visa sanctions shouldn’t be considered insurmountable.
Dismissing public concern, Thaksin stated, “There’s nothing to be alarmed about. If I’m not worried, don’t be worried either.” He brushed aside questions about the sanctions' potential impact on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra or other cabinet ministers, reiterating confidence in Thailand’s ability to clarify its position to the US. He emphasized the transient nature of such diplomatic disputes, suggesting they are readily resolvable through multi-level dialogue.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed on Monday that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively addressing concerns regarding the Uyghur deportation. This indicates that while publicly downplaying the US sanctions, the Thai government is working to mitigate the diplomatic fallout. However, the long-term implications for US-Thai relations remain uncertain. This incident underscores the delicate balance Thailand faces between its relationship with China and addressing international human rights concerns.
