US condemns Bangkok protest violence

US condemns Bangkok protest violence

The United States has condemned "increasing violence" at Thai anti-government protests, as Japan calls for a peaceful solution to rallies and Hong Kong issues a 'black alert' warning citizens to avoid all travel to Bangkok.

The United States on Wednesday issued a statement expressing concern about the recent violence in Bangkok and calling on all sides of the political divide to avoid using violence and respect the rule of law. It said the US supports Thailand's democratic system and encouraged opponents to talk to resolve differences peacefully.

"The United States strongly condemns increasing violence in Bangkok that has resulted in deaths and injuries. We urge Thai authorities to investigate these attacks and bring those responsible to justice. We urge all sides to refrain from violence, exercise restraint, and respect the rule of law," said the statement, which was posted on the US Department of State website.

Previously, the US issued a travel advisory warning all American citizens of the "potential risks of travel to Thailand".

"US citizens are advised to avoid all protests, demonstrations, and large gatherings. Some protest sites are located near tourist attractions and popular shopping malls, which at times have closed or shortened hours unexpectedly.

"Protests may occur in other areas with little or no prior notice. You should allow extra time when travelling throughout the city or to/from airports. Consider using public transportation. Although many protest activities have been peaceful, increasingly violent incidents have occurred at or near protest sites," the advisory said.


Foreign tourists have been caught in the middle of anti-government protests in Bangkok. (File Photos)


The Japanese government has meanwhile called for a peaceful solution to the protest situation in Bangkok.

"We are deeply concerned and watching closely," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a press conference. "We hope violence will not be used and that the situation will be addressed peacefully through dialogue."

The government will consider possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens and the smooth operation of Japanese companies in the Southeast Asian country, the senior government spokesman said.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region raised its Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) to black for Bangkok, while the alert for other parts of Thailand remains at amber.

The change was announced after the caretaker government invoked a 60-day state of emergency in Bangkok and some neighbouring provinces to deal with the protests that have drawn several violent attacks, ahead of the general election scheduled for Feb 2.

Hong Kong's government spokesman said: "Residents are urged to avoid all travel to Thailand (Bangkok). Those already there should attend to their personal safety and avoid protests and large gatherings of people."

The spokesman said the Security Bureau will continue to monitor the protest situation and issue updates accordingly.

Hong Kong has three levels of travel alert: amber, red and black. Currently, four countries are on Hong Kong's black alert list - Egypt, the Philippines, Syria and Thailand (Bangkok).

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