Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra suggested that the Thai government invite the EU ambassador for discussions to clarify Thailand’s recent deportation of Uyghur refugees to China. He argued that the move was a return to justice, as the refugees had been detained in Thailand for a decade. Thaksin also stated that China had assured there would be no prosecution or punishment for the deported individuals.
Speaking at Centara Grand Hotel in Bangkok on March 14, 2025, Thaksin addressed the European Parliament’s condemnation and potential trade pressure on Thailand. He emphasized that Thailand had violated Uyghur refugees' rights for 10 years by detaining them for illegal entry. According to him, no other country had stepped forward to accept them, making repatriation the only viable option.
Thaksin insisted that China had made a clear commitment not to prosecute the returnees and that sending them back was a way to resolve Thailand’s prolonged human rights issue.
When asked whether EU trade measures would destabilize the Thai government, Thaksin dismissed concerns, stating that dialogue was essential. He urged for open communication, warning against speculation that could lead to misunderstandings.