Bangkok: Thailand has reiterated its dedication to human rights and emphasized that it will not engage in discriminatory practices against Cambodian workers despite ongoing governmental conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkaew, highlighted the importance of distinguishing between policy issues and human rights, underscoring that discrimination should be unequivocally rejected.
According to Thai News Agency, Sihasak addressed the need for cooperation on human rights and labor issues with Cambodia, reiterating Thailand's commitment to treating foreign workers fairly. He assured that Cambodian workers in Thailand receive equal benefits to their Thai counterparts, emphasizing their integral role in the Thai economy. Sihasak cautioned against escalating government-level conflicts to affect ordinary citizens, stressing the importance of long-term coexistence and mutual respect between the two nations.
Sihasak further noted the need for resolving government-level conflicts without entangling the general populace. He acknowledged the current situation where numerous Cambodian workers remain in Thailand without proper work permits, a direct result of government policy. He stated that it is the government's responsibility to assess the necessity of foreign workers while maintaining a clear separation between government policies and the welfare of the people.