Thai FM Urges Chinese Envoy to Foster Mutual Understanding Post-Airport Incident

Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow has urged the Chinese ambassador in Bangkok to promote mutual understanding, and not just one-sided protection of Chinese interests. Mr Sihasak made the remark at Government House on Wednesday, a day after the management of Suvarnabhumi airport apologised for its security guards’ handling of a commotion caused by a group of Chinese fans chasing an actor at the airport last week. In the incident, 22 overzealous Chinese fans were barred from boarding a Thai Airways International plane bound for Beijing together with their Chinese idol because of safety concerns. A Thai security guard deployed to handle the group is seen at one point making a slant-eye gesture towards the group. Mr Sihasak said that Thais would like visitors to have positive impressions upon arrival, during their stay in Thailand and on their departure, while officials have to ensure that all visitors comply with local laws and regulations. “I think it is the duty of the Chinese ambassador here because there have been many incidents that may cause reactions among Thais.” Mr Sihasak said. “I have told the ambassador that on sensitive matters he must come out and explain instead of speaking only to protect Chinese interests. “Understanding must be created. While he is here, the ambassador’s main duty is to promote international relations and good understanding among people. So, in his statements, the ambassador must consider his duty instead of escalating reactions. “The duty of the (Chinese) ambassador here and the Thai ambassador there is to maintain good relations between both sides,” Mr Sihasak added. On Tuesday night the management of Suvarnabhumi airport issued a statement saying that 22 Chinese travellers were prohibited from boarding a flight on the night of July 29 because they had failed to comply with regulations and could have endangered safety if they had been allowed on the flight. Management also apologised for the security guards’ actions during a subsequent altercation that took place after the passengers were escorted back into a holding area. Most people commenting online after viewing video of the incident said they believed airline and security staff did the best they could to handle a chaotic situation. A few days before the Suvarnabhumi incident, the Chinese Embassy called on organisers of a fan event in Bangkok to discipline security staff seen manhandling a female visitor from China. The Tourism Authority of Thailand issued a statement expressing regret, which received coverage in Chinese media. It later emerged that the woman in question was a queue-jumper who had earlier antagonised organisers and attacked a security staffer trying to escort her away. The embassy did not issue a follow-up comment.