Bangkok: Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, has denied any visa restrictions related to the Uighur repatriation to China, stating that he remains in Thailand to support the negotiation team with information if security issues arise. He also dismissed a proposal to borrow money to buy F-16 fighter jets.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham discussed plans to support the Thai negotiating team traveling to the United States to discuss tax reductions and security issues. He emphasized that Thailand has made thorough preparations and assured that the Prime Minister is attentive to the matter. Despite any delays from the US side, Mr. Phumtham expressed confidence in Thailand’s readiness to negotiate once a clear schedule is established.
Mr. Phumtham downplayed the significance of the postponement, suggesting that when the originating country requests a delay, it is not a cause for concern. He highlighted that advisors from Ban Phitsanulok and various ministries have already prepared for the discussions. Moreover, the Thai army has conducted a survey on its US-purchased weapons, which have not been included in the trade balance, prompting the need for further discussion.
When questioned about the absence of some negotiating team members, such as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Phumtham noted that these decisions have their reasons and do not indicate any conflict. He stated that negotiations will focus on maximizing benefits for Thailand. He also mentioned that if the US proposes any security-related issues, he would handle them promptly without needing to be physically present.
Addressing speculations about visa restrictions due to the Uighur repatriation, Mr. Phumtham denied receiving any communication from the US regarding entry bans. He clarified that he is not imagining scenarios or discussing them publicly, preferring to wait for the operation’s outcomes before making any comments.
Mr. Phumtham was also asked about balancing relations between China and the US, given China’s stance against countries cooperating with the US. He stated that this issue is between the US and China, while affirming Thailand’s good relationship with both nations. He plans to engage in discussions with international defense leaders, including those from the US and China, at upcoming conferences in Germany and Singapore.
When asked about US pressure to switch Thailand’s fighter jet fleet from Gripen to F-16 in exchange for tax cuts, Mr. Phumtham explained that this is a long-term issue. He expressed reluctance to borrow money from the US for weapon purchases, indicating that such conditions would not be acceptable. He also mentioned that the Prime Minister’s potential trip to Sweden to sign a contract for Gripen aircraft remains uncertain, as the Air Force has not yet submitted the proposal for approval.