Cambodia is hopeful that potential new US visa restrictions will be viewed positively due to its cooperation on repatriating citizens. The Trump administration is considering bans on 43 countries, categorizing them by severity. Cambodia is on the yellow list, indicating less stringent limitations, and aims to address concerns within 60 days to avoid stricter classifications.
PHNOM PENH – The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed hope for a favorable outcome regarding potential new US visa restrictions. This optimism stems from Cambodia’s collaboration in assisting Cambodian citizens facing US removal orders. Recent reports indicate that the Trump administration is contemplating travel bans affecting 43 nations, categorized by color codes representing the severity of restrictions.
Cambodia is listed among 21 countries in the yellow category, which features the least stringent limitations. Within the red category, there are 11 countries facing entry bans, including Afghanistan, Cuba, and Syria, while 11 others, including Russia and Pakistan, are classified under the orange category with significant visa restrictions.
Countries on the yellow list will have 60 days to resolve the US administration’s unspecified “concerns,” failing which they risk moving to a more restrictive category. These concerns potentially relate to the deportation of Cambodian citizens who have committed crimes in the US.
Chum Sounry, Cambodia’s foreign ministry spokesperson, conveyed to The Phnom Penh Post that there has been no formal notification about the visa situation, but the ministry is actively seeking clarification through diplomatic means. He reinforced that Cambodia remains committed to cooperating with the US in facilitating the repatriation of affected nationals.
Sounry emphasized that the Cambodian government, through various agencies, has been efficient in processing interviews and travel documentation to expedite the repatriation efforts. He expressed confidence that Cambodia’s consistent cooperation and positive bilateral relations with the US will lead to favorable considerations regarding visa policies. As of November 2024, 1,747 Cambodians were awaiting deportation, according to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In summary, Cambodia is optimistic about potential US visa restrictions, emphasizing its commitment to cooperating with US authorities on the repatriation of citizens under removal orders. With its placement in the yellow category denoting minimal restrictions, Cambodia aims to address any concerns promptly. The proactive diplomatic efforts and established bilateral relations contribute to Cambodia’s confidence in receiving a positive response from the US administration regarding the visa situation.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
