BANGKOK, 20 May 2015 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded to international calls for Thailand to assist Rohingya migrants, saying the Kingdom has already been doing so.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Don Pramudwinai echoed the Prime Minister’s statement that Thailand is not being indifferent to the plight of the Rohingyas as humanitarian aid has continuously been extended to them. Similar to neighboring countries, he said Thailand has been reaching out to the migrants as necessary while those entering the country illegally have been treated appropriately in compliance with the law.
Mr Don indicated that the international community’s request for Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia to jointly take care of the Rohingyas was understandable and was not a surprise. Nonetheless, he affirmed Thailand has already been doing its part, especially after the imposition of Section 44 which has led to more serious suppression of human trafficking.
In regard to the Special Meeting on Irregular Migration in the Indian Ocean to be hosted by Thailand on May 29, a total of 17 countries and 3 international organizations have confirmed their attendance. Mr Don said there will be discussions on all issues related to Rohingya migrants, from the assistance of those stranded at sea to the provision of shelters for those arriving on the shore as a short-term solution and the search for long-term solutions to stop their migration.
