Thu 31 Aug 2006
Filed under: News, On The Border
Myanmar (Burma) has agreed to issue “temporary passports” for citizens working illegally in Thailand, Thai National Security Council chief General Winai Pattiyakul said on August 28, The Nation reports.
Burmese workers who wanted to apply for the passport could submit their documents at Tachilek town, opposite Mae Sai in Chiang Rai; Myawaddy, opposite Mae Sot, Tak; and Koh Song opposite Ranong.
The decision was reached during a meeting between visiting Burmese Deputy Foreign Minister Maung Win and Deputy Prime Minister Chidchai Vanasatidya.Gen Winai told reporters it would be up to the Burmese to decide when the issuance of the temporary passports could begin.
“It’s a good start for both sides to tackle the increasing number of illegal immigrants in the country,” Winai said adding that the Thai side had also agreed to reduce visa fees for Burmese workers.