"There is no need to die here": Thailand's Prime Minister appealed to foreigners

“No need to die here”: Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister addressed foreigners

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul advised foreigners who have been living in the country for a long time to return to their homeland to die.

“Recently, I learned that a request had been received (from foreigners – ed.) to even establish a private cemetery. This situation has gone too far, it is crossing boundaries. You should be grateful that we allowed you to come here (to Thailand). You came to make an honest living. If you are going to die, go and die in your own homeland. No need to die here. Do not try to exploit us,” Charnvirakul said at a meeting with governors of Thai provinces.

He also emphasized that foreign citizens should not establish religious institutions and communities in Thailand at their own discretion without government permission. In particular, he stated that cases of “obtaining a license to open a restaurant and establishing a temple instead” would not be tolerated.

Charnvirakul called on provincial leaders to strictly put an end to the illegal activities of foreign citizens in their territories, as well as cases of disrespect by foreigners towards Thai traditions and people. In such cases, accelerated deportation will be applied to the foreigner.

“Thailand is ready to welcome foreigners, but cooperation must be mutually beneficial. Tourism brings funds and investments to the country, but this does not give anyone the right to exploit others or use investments for illegal activities,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

He explained that such activities also include using Thai citizens as nominees to set up businesses. Charnvirakul said that this refers to people coming from countries in Asia, the Middle East, Central Asia, Europe, and Africa.

The majority of Thailand's population practices Buddhism. Since cremation of the deceased is widespread in Buddhist traditions, the use of cemeteries for burial ceremonies is relatively rare in the country.

For information, starting from September 15, citizens of Uzbekistan will need to obtain an electronic visa to travel to Thailand. The Kingdom has introduced several separate categories instead of a single 60-day visa-free regime for 93 countries. However, Uzbekistan is not included among them, which is why citizens are required to obtain a visa before traveling. E-visa applications of Uzbekistan citizens are processed by the Embassy of Thailand in Moscow. The visa fee is $40, and it is recommended to submit the application about 1 month before the trip.