Beijing:Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow engaged in discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, emphasizing the need for China to ensure that its travel advisories regarding Thailand are precise and do not misrepresent the entire nation as a high-risk destination.

According to Thai News Agency, Sihasak expressed concerns following the meeting held on the sidelines of the 11th Mekong-Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting. He addressed the recent warnings issued by the Chinese embassy to Chinese nationals traveling to Thailand, amidst increasing reports of transnational cybercrime and scam networks within the region.

Sihasak underscored the importance of cooperation between the two countries in tackling cross-border fraud and human trafficking. However, he stressed that travel advisories need to clearly differentiate between general tourists and those potentially targeted by criminal operations. He pointed out that broad warnings could cause unnecessary alarm by suggesting all tourists face safety risks like disappearances, noting that these criminal syndicates often involve Chinese nationals, thus making it a joint issue rather than one exclusive to Thailand.

In addition to travel advisories, the discussion also covered preparations for the upcoming official visit to Thailand by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, as well as matters of bilateral trade and investment. Sihasak called on Beijing to enhance market access for Thai agricultural goods, particularly emphasizing China's previous commitment to purchase 500,000 tonnes of Thai rice.