XINJIANG, March 21 (TNA) – Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong visited one of 40 Uyghurs repatriated from Thailand, confirming his well-being and safe living conditions in Xinjiang, China.
The visit, which included members of the press, took place in Kashgar City, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The Uyghur man and his family welcomed the delegation, stating that he was received at the airport by his parents and sister and returned home immediately without being detained.
The man expressed his deep longing for his family, whom he had not seen for 12 years.
He recounted leaving Xinjiang as a teenager after being influenced by radical individuals who invited him to travel abroad. However, he was arrested during a transit stop in Thailand.
While detained in Thailand, he reported being treated well but missed his family and was concerned about his mother’s health. He also mentioned his two-year-old daughter and his other daughter that lives with his ex-wife. Upon returning to his home, he now lives with his youngest daughter and will try to bring his other daughter back to live with him.
Phumtham inquired whether the man or other detainees had sent letters for assistance during their time in Thailand. The man confirmed that he had not written any letters and was unaware of any other detainees doing so.
Upon his return to China, he received a warm welcome from his village and had his new national ID card provided by Chinese authorities. He now intends to focus on caring for his parents and supporting his family.
He expressed gratitude to the Thai and Chinese governments for their cooperation in facilitating his return, stating that he is now happy and safe with his family.
The Thai delegation arrived back in Thailand early Friday. -819 (TNA)
