Canada updates travel advisory to Thailand with new warning
If you’re travelling from Canada to Thailand for a much-needed break from winter, you may want to take note: a new travel advisory update is warning tourists of potential safety risks.
On Jan. 21, the Government of Canada warned of possible security risks along the Thailand-Cambodia border. Thai and Cambodian authorities reached a ceasefire agreement on Dec. 27, pausing ongoing clashes due to a longstanding border dispute.
On Dec. 31, the U.S. Department of State stated, “We welcome Thailand’s release of the 18 Cambodian soldiers as a positive step towards rebuilding neighbourly relations and trust. The United States stands ready to support the Cambodian and Thai governments as they resume the critical implementation measures agreed to in the Oct. 26 Joint Declaration.”
But although the ceasefire is in effect, Canada is warning its citizens that the security environment in border areas “remains unpredictable.”
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“Land border crossings between Thailand and Cambodia are currently closed,” reads the statement.
Tourists in Thailand should altogether avoid travelling to the area within 50 km of the border with Cambodia.
But if you are travelling near the Cambodia border, expect heightened military presence and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Martial law is still in effect in several districts, which means that authorities have enhanced powers to enforce curfews, evacuations, and other movement restrictions. The advisory also warns of land mines and unexploded ordnance in the disputed region.
Canada has issued several warnings in the past regarding the ongoing tensions in the region.
The risk level for Thailand is currently yellow, which means travellers should “exercise a high degree of caution.”
“The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada,” reads the advisory page.