A series of illegal activities allegedly involving Sri Lankan nationals in Thailand, particularly drug-related incidents, has been cited as the main reason for Thailand’s decision to suspend visa-free entry for Sri Lankan citizens.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath made the remarks while addressing a weekly cabinet media briefing held today (8) at the Department of Government Information.

According to Minister Herath, several incidents involving Sri Lankan nationals were reported in recent months, including cases involving narcotics being brought from Thailand to Sri Lanka.

He also referred to a recent incident in which a group of Buddhist monks allegedly returned from Thailand carrying cannabis.
“The main reason is the illegal activities carried out by Sri Lankans who travelled to Thailand using the visa facility,” the Foreign Minister said.

He said the incidents had contributed to Thailand’s decision to include Sri Lanka among the 60 countries whose citizens will no longer be eligible for visa-free entry.

The visa-free facility for Sri Lankan passport holders will be withdrawn from September 15. Sri Lankan citizens travelling to Thailand after that date will therefore be required to obtain a visa before departure.

However, Minister Herath said the Sri Lankan Government has held discussions with the Thai authorities with the aim of restoring visa facilities.

Thailand has proposed a bilateral agreement on visa arrangements between the two countries, according to the Foreign Minister. The draft agreement has been discussed with Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration and the Attorney General’s Department.

Minister Herath said the government hopes to sign the bilateral agreement with Thailand in the near future, potentially allowing Sri Lankan citizens to regain the visa facility.