Thai, Malaysian Governments Advise Caution on European Travel

The governments of Thailand and Malaysia have issued fresh travel guidance for citizens planning trips to parts of Europe affected by ongoing protests.

Thailand has suggested that travellers postpone trips that are not essential, while Malaysia has issued a specific warning regarding France.

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, spoke to journalists late on Wednesday during a visit to Italy. He said Thais travelling to Europe should keep a careful watch on the situation, which is developing quickly. He also advised them to stay in touch with Thai embassies and the foreign ministry in the relevant countries. According to him, France continues to be a source of concern because conditions there are still not normal.

The minister referred to demonstrations in Italy, saying unrest had forced his Italian counterpart to call off a planned bilateral meeting so that an essential cabinet session could be held. He added that Thailand was also worried about developments in Spain.

Given what is happening in these countries, he said it would be preferable to put off travel for a while unless it was absolutely necessary.

Separately, the Malaysian embassy in Paris told Malaysians in France on Sunday to be careful and alert in light of the protests. The foreign ministry in Kuala Lumpur said it is keeping a close watch on the demonstrations. Malaysian nationals have been advised to think about postponing non-essential trips until conditions get better.

Earlier, China had told its citizens going to France to take appropriate safety steps, as reported by the state broadcaster on Monday. Several town halls and shops across France were looted and set alight over the weekend, and a number of countries have since taken precautionary measures to restrict travel by their citizens there.