• The US has sanctioned Thai officials involved in the deportation of 40 Uyghurs to China amidst global condemnation.
• Thailand defends its repatriation policy, citing assurances from Beijing regarding Uyghurs' safety.
• A Thai delegation will travel to China to ensure the welfare of the deported Uyghurs.
• These events follow the EU's resolution condemning Thailand's actions and pushing for human rights reforms.

A delegation from the Thai government is set to visit China this week to monitor the welfare of Uyghur refugees following their controversial deportation that prompted US travel sanctions on local officials. Led by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, the delegation will travel to Kashi city in Xinjiang from March 18 to 20, as stated by government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub.

The visit aims to address concerns from several nations regarding the well-being of the 40 Uyghurs, repatriated last month after being held in detention for a decade. This action is defended by Thailand as consistent with humanitarian principles, citing assurances from China regarding the safety of those deported. The Thai government has committed to follow up on the welfare of the Uyghurs, as reiterated in multiple statements.

The US State Department recently announced travel restrictions on unnamed Thai officials associated with these deportations, as part of a new policy to discourage nations from cooperating with China's pressure to forcibly return Uyghurs. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need for global efforts to prevent such deportations into environments where persecution is probable.

Thailand's government has portrayed the deportations as necessary to maintain diplomatic relations with China, which has become a major trading partner in recent years. The Thai government previously emphasized its commitment to humanitarian efforts, stating that providing assistance to displaced persons aligns with its long-standing tradition.

The European Parliament also condemned the deportation, urging Thailand to cease forced returns of refugees and reconsider its controversial lèse-majesté law. The overwhelming pressure from both the US and EU poses challenges for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, particularly against the backdrop of escalating trade tensions with these Western nations.

China has faced increasing scrutiny over its policies regarding the Uyghur population, often accused of human rights violations including forced labor and cultural suppression in Xinjiang. The group repatriated last month was among hundreds who fled China back in 2014.

For further details, see the original reports from Bangkok Post, Al Jazeera, and South China Morning Post.