Bangkok: Sihasak Phuangketkaew, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has addressed the recent decision by South Korea to ban Thai migrant workers from four provinces from working in specific sectors. He emphasized the importance of respecting the laws of host countries, urging Thai citizens to comply with South Korean regulations.
According to Thai News Agency, Sihasak made these remarks following his participation in the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting. The discussions at the meeting centered on maintaining international norms and supporting multilateral systems. Sihasak highlighted the significance of BRICS as a coalition of developing and emerging nations that are poised to influence the evolving global order. This comes at a time when traditional global structures are being tested by actions from superpowers, as demonstrated by ongoing conflicts in regions like the Middle East.
The meeting also explored ways to enhance collaboration in areas such as economic security, innovation, and environmental sustainability. For Thailand, this gathering provided a platform to announce its strategy of boosting economic ties with African nations, identified as burgeoning markets. The involvement of countries like Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Egypt in the discussions presents a strategic opportunity for Thailand to broaden its trade horizons.
In light of South Korea's prohibition on Thai workers from Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Udon Thani, and Maha Sarakham, Sihasak stressed the necessity for Thai nationals to adhere to local regulations. He remarked, "We must be careful. Their laws are their laws, and we must respect them. Even if they allow us to stay for a certain period, we shouldn't be working. It's a matter of their enforcement. I urge all Thais, wherever they go, to abide by the rules and respect the law."