Thailand and Malaysia have urged their citizens to avoid or exercise caution when travelling to European Union countries affected by protests. This comes after serious unrest in France, massive demonstrations against the cost of living, as well as smaller clashes in Italy and Belgium, while protests are also boiling over in Spain and Portugal.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phungketkeow said on Wednesday that those travelling from Thailand to Europe should closely monitor the situation, as it is changing rapidly and France remains a continuing concern. He also expressed concern about protests in Italy, noting that his Italian counterpart had been forced to cancel their bilateral meeting due to an urgent cabinet meeting on the unrest. “We are also concerned about Spain,” he added.
Phungketkeow advised: “If it is not necessary, given everything that is happening in those countries, I think it is better to postpone the trip for some time.” Similar warnings have also been issued by the Malaysian embassy in Paris, which on Sunday advised Malaysians in France to “exercise caution and remain vigilant” due to the protests.
In a statement, the Malaysian embassy stressed that while travel to France remains unrestricted, Malaysian citizens are advised to consider postponing non-essential travel until the situation improves. China also warned its citizens travelling to France to take precautionary security measures, state broadcaster CCTV reported on Monday, following looting and arson of municipal buildings and shops over the weekend.
Source: France 24 Live News