Cambodia anticipates a favorable response from the U.S. regarding potential visa restrictions due to its strong cooperation in managing deportations. Reports outline a three-tiered restriction system with Cambodia listed in the least severe Yellow category, which may prompt actions within 60 days to alleviate concerns. The Cambodian foreign ministry has emphasized ongoing collaboration with U.S. authorities in repatriation efforts.
Phnom Penh — As the potential for new U.S. visa restrictions looms, a representative from the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated that Cambodia anticipates positive outcomes, attributing this expectation to the country’s significant cooperation with the U.S. on matters related to Cambodian citizens under removal orders.
Reports indicate that the Trump administration may enforce travel restrictions impacting 43 countries, categorized by severity as Red, Orange, and Yellow. Cambodia appears on the Yellow list, denoting the least stringent restrictions among the three. Under the Red category, citizens from 11 nations, including Afghanistan and North Korea, would face entry bans.
The Orange category includes 11 nations subjected to stringent visa limitations, while the Yellow list comprises a variety of countries such as Angola and Zimbabwe, alongside Cambodia. Countries on the Yellow list will reportedly receive 60 days to address U.S. authorities’ concerns, potentially involving the deportation of Cambodian citizens with offenses in the U.S.
Chum Sounry, the spokesperson from the foreign ministry, remarked that no official notification had been received concerning the visa situation but they are actively seeking clarification via diplomatic means. He emphasized that Cambodia remains fully committed to facilitating the repatriation process, having collaborated closely with U.S. authorities to expedite procedures, such as conducting interviews and issuing travel documents.
He expressed confidence that Cambodia’s proactive approach and the healthy trajectory of U.S.-Cambodia relations would lead to a favorable consideration of their cooperation. No current statistics indicate the precise number of Cambodians pending deportation; however, figures from November 2024 from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) noted approximately 1,747 cases.
In summary, Cambodia maintains a hopeful stance regarding potential new U.S. visa restrictions, attributing this optimism to its cooperative efforts in handling Cambodian citizens under U.S. removal orders. While awaiting further details about the concerns raised by the U.S. administration, Cambodia’s commitment to collaboration and adherence to procedures could positively influence its standing amidst the proposed visa changes.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
