Beijing (TDI): China acknowledges and appreciates the strong cooperation between China and Thailand in combating illegal migration by Uyghurs and cross-border crimes, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said
On February 27, 40 Chinese nationals who had unlawfully entered Thailand were repatriated to China in accordance with the legal frameworks of both countries, international law, and common global practices.
The group is thought to have been flown back to China’s Xinjiang region on Thursday, after being held for 10 years in a Bangkok detention centre.
China firmly opposes any interference in China’s internal affairs and law enforcement cooperation with other countries in the name of human rights and by citing so-called issues about Xinjiang.
China adheres to the rule of law and benefits from a robust legal system which… pic.twitter.com/wA6B7VS8cv
— Spokesperson发言人办公室 (@MFA_China) February 28, 2025
This repatriation reflects the shared commitment of China and Thailand to upholding the rule of law and ensuring regional security.
Illegal migration and human smuggling are serious crimes that disrupt legal border management and pose risks to national and international security.
The Chinese government has consistently maintained a firm stand against all forms of human smuggling and remains dedicated to safeguarding the legal order and safety, the spokesperson said
According to the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, “the repatriation was conducted fairly and in coordination with Thai authorities, highlighting the importance of international law enforcement collaboration with other states.”
Furthermore he also stated that China will continue to work closely with other countries to cooperate on border security, counter transnational crimes, and promote safe, orderly migration.
“China strongly opposes any attempts to misrepresent or politicize legitimate law enforcement actions. Many external entities continue to spread misinformation and unfounded allegations about China’s policies in Xinjiang, while they aim to interfere in China’s internal affairs”, Jin Lian stated.
He clarified that such false narratives are trying to undermine mutual cooperation between all nations and that these narratives should not distract from the shared objective of maintaining legal and secure migration laws and systems.
He said that China remains committed to strengthening diplomatic and law enforcement ties with international states to foster security, stability, and mutual respect and to negotiate on global affairs.
The government urges all parties to focus on constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts to address global challenges, rather than engaging in misinformation campaigns that distort facts and hinder international cooperation, he added.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
