Thai officials emphasized that the nation is intensifying its cooperation with China to tackle transnational crimes, particularly online gambling and fraud.
According to Xinhua, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa underscored Thailand’s commitment to international collaboration, particularly with China, to address these pressing issues.
Recent discussions between Chinese Ambassador to Thailand Han Zhiqiang and Thai officials focused on strategies to combat online gambling and fraud, especially in regions like Myawaddy.
These talks included efforts to rescue Chinese citizens who have fallen victim to such crimes. Ambassador Han noted that during Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s recent trip to China, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to jointly tackle online gambling and related criminal activities.
This collaboration is not new; previous meetings have laid the groundwork for this partnership.
China’s President Xi Jinping recently expressed concerns regarding Thailand’s plan to legalize casinos, highlighting potential social issues that could arise from such a move.
This comment was made during a meeting with Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who confirmed that Xi sought further details about the proposed casino-entertainment complex.
As Chinese tourists represent a significant source of visitors to Thailand, Xi’s input is particularly important given China’s strict policies on gambling and its ongoing crackdown on illegal gaming operations.
In late 2023, Thai and Chinese officials convened to discuss increasing cooperation on law enforcement, which included sharing intelligence related to transnational crimes. These initial discussions highlighted the growing concern over the proliferation of online gambling platforms that operate outside legal frameworks, endangering citizens in both countries.
The law enforcement agencies of Thailand and China have already initiated collaborative actions, leading to promising outcomes.
For instance, coordinated raids on illegal gambling operations have resulted in significant arrests and the dismantling of several fraud rings. Han expressed optimism for future cooperation, emphasizing the need for a robust mechanism to enhance joint efforts against cross-border crimes that threaten public safety and economic stability.
In their response, Phumtham and Maris reiterated Thailand’s proactive stance on international cooperation in fighting transnational crimes. They announced a series of effective measures already implemented, including increased surveillance and stricter penalties for offenders.
The Thai government aims to create a safer environment for its citizens and visitors alike, enhancing regional security.
Furthermore, both countries are exploring avenues to share intelligence and resources, which could lead to the development of a more comprehensive approach to combating online crimes. This collaboration is seen as essential not only for protecting citizens but also for fostering trust and stability in the region.
