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Canada All National News
Statement from Minister Joly following Thailand’s forced return of Uyghur refugees to China
Ottawa – 2025-02-28, 03:30 – The Canadian government has issued a strong statement of condemnation following reports that Thailand forcibly returned a group of Uyghur refugees to China. Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly released a statement early this morning expressing deep concern and calling for international investigation into the matter.
“Canada is gravely concerned by reports of the forced repatriation of Uyghur refugees from Thailand to China,” Minister Joly stated. “We unequivocally condemn this action, which violates international human rights law and the principle of non-refoulement. We urge the Thai government to immediately cease any further deportations and to ensure the safety and well-being of all refugees within its borders.”
The forced return of Uyghurs to China has been a long-standing concern for human rights organizations and Western governments. Reports from credible sources, including the United Nations and Amnesty International, allege that Uyghurs in China, particularly in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, face systematic persecution, including mass detention, forced labor, cultural and religious repression, and surveillance. China vehemently denies these allegations, claiming its policies in Xinjiang are aimed at combating extremism and promoting economic development.
The number of refugees forcibly returned from Thailand is currently unconfirmed. Unofficial reports suggest that the group consisted of approximately 100 individuals, including women and children. These reports are however yet to be verified. Sources within the UNHCR have expressed serious concerns about the well-being of those returned, highlighting the potential for arbitrary detention, torture, and other human rights abuses upon their arrival in China.
Minister Joly emphasized the importance of upholding international obligations to protect refugees and asylum seekers. “Canada stands firmly with the international community in calling on China to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all its citizens, including Uyghurs,” she stated. “We urge China to allow independent observers, including representatives from the United Nations, unfettered access to Xinjiang to investigate the human rights situation on the ground.”
The Canadian government has been a vocal critic of China’s human rights record, particularly concerning the treatment of Uyghurs. In recent years, Canada has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials implicated in human rights abuses in Xinjiang and has taken steps to raise awareness of the issue on the international stage.
The statement from Minister Joly also addressed the broader implications of the forced repatriation for the international refugee protection regime. “This action by Thailand undermines the principles of international law and sends a dangerous message to other countries hosting refugees,” she said. “It is crucial that all states uphold their obligations to protect those fleeing persecution and to ensure that they are not returned to a place where their lives or freedoms would be at risk.”
Canada is now working with its international partners, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other like-minded countries, to coordinate a response to the situation. The government is exploring all available diplomatic and legal avenues to hold those responsible for the forced repatriation accountable and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The Canadian government is also reiterating its commitment to providing refuge to those fleeing persecution, including Uyghurs. Canada’s immigration policies prioritize the protection of vulnerable populations, and the government has pledged to continue welcoming refugees from around the world.
This latest development is likely to further strain relations between Canada and China, which have been tense in recent years due to disagreements over trade, human rights, and other issues. The Canadian government has vowed to continue advocating for human rights and the rule of law in its engagement with China.
The situation in Thailand remains fluid, and Canada All National News will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. We are also seeking comment from the Thai government and the Chinese embassy in Ottawa.
Statement from Minister Joly following Thailand’s forced return of Uyghur refugees to China
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Canada All National News a new article on 2025-02-28 03:30 titled “Statement from Minister Joly following Thailand’s forced return of Uyghur refugees to China”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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