Chinese nationals involved in illegal immigration who were repatriated from Thailand to China return to homes and reunite with their families on February 28, 2025. Photo: WeChat account of Chinese Embassy in Thailand

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand said on Friday that the 40 Chinese nationals involved in illegal immigration who were repatriated from Thailand to China on Thursday have all returned to their homes, and were reunited with their families after more than a decade apart. 

Both the Chinese and Thai governments attach great importance to operating in accordance with the law and protecting human rights. As China has indicated to Thailand, the crimes these Chinese nationals involved in were solely related to illegal immigration, and no other serious crimes were found. After fulfilling the relevant legal procedures, they were released and allowed to return home, which is the best guarantee of their legitimate rights and interests, the Chinese Embassy said in a statement published on its official WeChat account on Friday.

China will also further assist these individuals in reintegrating into society and resuming normal lives, the Chinese Embassy said.

The Thai government has sent representatives to witness the situation on-site, the Chinese Embassy said, adding that China welcomes Thai government officials to visit and see the living conditions of those people. For Thai individuals concerned about the situation in Xinjiang region, we encourage them to visit the region more often to experience the development changes and the happy lives of the people there.

Global Times