Bangkok, March 2nd, 2025 — Ras Chaleechan, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, dismissed claims that a third country had agreed to accept 40 Uyghurs from Thailand, stating no official request had been made through diplomatic channels.
Assistant Minister Ras explained that if any country were serious about resettlement, it would have sent formal confirmation via the Thai Foreign Ministry or Thai embassies. However, no such request has been received.
He added that while some countries, like allegedly Turkey, expressed interest 11 years ago, no further offers have been made for the remaining Uyghurs in Thailand. He emphasized that repatriation must be handled government-to-government and cannot be arranged through international organizations like the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), politicians not in power, or Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs).
Meanwhile, Jirayu Huangsap, a government spokesperson, confirmed that the Thai delegation observing the Uyghur return process had arrived back in Thailand. They documented the process in a 1.52-minute video, titled “11 Years to Return Home,” explaining the repatriation procedures and outcomes.
A full report will be submitted to the Thai PM, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Additionally, Justice Minister Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong is coordinating with officials to visit Xinjiang, China, within 15-30 days to assess the Uyghurs’ living conditions. Deputy Interior Minister Teerarat Samretwanich will oversee media arrangements for Thai journalists and some members of human rights organizations to join the trip.
