1. Regarding recent news reporting on groups of illegal migrants found in the Andaman Sea, Thai officials are currently investigating and verifying all the facts and surrounding circumstances.
2. At the same time, we will reassess the overall situation of illegal immigrants, taking into consideration relevant developments, including in policy.
3. In employing measures to protect our borders at sea from various illegal activities, including illegal migration, in accordance with our immigration laws, we are committed to maintaining our traditional adherence to humanitarian principles and the protection of human rights.
4. Because of the increasing urgency of this issue and the increasing size of the problem, we will coordinate closely with the countries concerned and will also consider raising this issue in such fora as BIMSTEC.
5. Thailand has always supported bilateral, regional and international cooperation to combat people smuggling and human trafficking, whether at sea or on land. This must necessarily engage countries of origin, transit and destination. We aspire to achieving an appropriate and coordinated response to these transnational issues.
Prime Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Division, Department of Information Tel.(02) 643-5170
Fax. (02) 643-5169 E-mail : div0704@mfa.go.th End.