BANGKOK — China’s Vice Public Security Minister Liu Zhongyi apologized for creating misunderstandings about sovereignty during anti-scam operations in Thailand, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai revealed after their hour-long meeting on Febbruary 19 at the Defense Ministry.
Earlier, Liu traveled from Thailand’s Mae Sot checkpoint to the Karen Border Guard Force (BGF) headquarters and Myanmar authorities to visit around 900 Chinese nationals rescued from scammer compounds in Shwe Kokko. He also crossed the second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge to inspect potential aircraft pickup locations.
His February 16-17 trips drew criticism from some Thais who felt his unrestricted border movements without Thai officials present appeared to violate Thai sovereignty. However, Liu emphasized China’s respect for Thai sovereignty and local laws, attributing any misunderstandings to overenthusiasm in protecting Chinese citizens.
Liu stated that the Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, praised Thailand’s measures against scammers in Myanmar’s Myawaddy region, particularly the cutting of electricity, internet, and fuel supplies.
Three key developments emerged from the meeting:
- Thailand will host trilateral talks with Myanmar and China next week to strengthen cooperation against transnational crime.
- China will arrange three flights to repatriate 600 Chinese nationals from the Thai-Myanmar border, with 200 people per flight at three-day intervals.
- Thailand will continue its strict measures against call center operations in Myawaddy while requesting special container inspection equipment from China.
Thailand rejected a fourth proposal that would have restricted essential supplies to Myanmar, citing humanitarian concerns for innocent civilians in both countries.
The first repatriation operation begins February 20, with four flights departing from Mae Sot airport. The process of identifying victims and suspects will remain confidential as investigations continue.
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