Cambodia anticipates fair treatment amid potential new US visa restrictions, citing its cooperation on deportations. The Trump administration is considering bans categorized into Red, Orange, and Yellow, with Cambodia listed as a Yellow country. The Cambodian Foreign Ministry aims to address US concerns within 60 days while affirming its commitment to expedite deportation procedures. Currently, 1,747 Cambodians are awaiting deportation according to ICE data.
Cambodia is expressing optimism for favorable consideration regarding potential US visa restrictions, as articulated by a spokesperson from the Foreign Affairs Ministry. This follows reports of the Trump administration contemplating new travel bans affecting 43 countries, categorized in a color-coded system: Red, Orange, and Yellow.
Among the nations under scrutiny, Cambodia is classified as a Yellow country, indicating it faces the least restrictive measures. In contrast, the Red category includes 11 nations that will be prohibited from entering the United States, including Afghanistan, Cuba, and Syria. The Orange category will impose heavy visa restrictions on 11 other countries, such as Belarus and Myanmar.
The Yellow category encompasses countries such as Angola, Benin, and Mauritius, along with Cambodia. Countries in this category will have a 60-day period to address US concerns, potentially related to the deportation of Cambodian citizens who have committed offenses in the US.
Chum Sounry, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, indicated that Cambodia has not received formal notification regarding these changes but is pursuing information through diplomatic means. He stressed Cambodia’s commitment to collaborate fully with US authorities on the repatriation process for Cambodian nationals.
The foreign ministry is actively working in conjunction with the Ministry of Interior and the Cambodian embassy in the United States to expedite this process. Sounry noted, “We do not see any obstacles that would hinder this process,” affirming confidence that Cambodia’s cooperation and the positive trajectory of bilateral relations will be acknowledged positively.
As of November 2024, there were 1,747 Cambodians awaiting deportation, as reported by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This figure underscores the urgency of addressing deportation matters ahead of any potential visa restrictions.
In conclusion, Cambodia remains hopeful for a positive outcome regarding potential US visa restrictions, emphasizing its cooperative stance with US authorities concerning the deportation of its nationals. The Foreign Affairs Ministry is actively seeking clarity on the situation while assuring full compliance with US demands. With ongoing diplomatic engagements, Cambodia aims to maintain its favorable standing amid new US travel policies, particularly in light of its recent cooperation efforts.
Original Source: www.nationthailand.com
