Thailand, Malaysia urge citizens to avoid protest-hit EU nations

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BANGKOK, Thailand - Thailand has advised its citizens to postpone non-essential travel to parts of Europe rocked by protests, while Malaysia also warned its nationals about visiting France.

France has been hit by some of the worst street unrest in years amid mass demonstrations against the cost of living, while smaller clashes have broken out in Italy and Belgium, and protests are simmering in Spain and Portugal.

"Those travelling from Thailand to Europe must closely monitor the situation as it is changing rapidly and France remains a concern as the situation is still ongoing," Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phungketkeow told reporters late Wednesday during a trip to Italy.

He cited concerns about protests in Italy, noting his Italian counterpart had to cancel their bilateral due to an urgent government cabinet meeting on the unrest, adding: "We are also worried about Spain.

"If it's not necessary, with everything going on in those countries, I think it's better to delay the trip for a while," he said.

The Malaysian embassy in Paris had on Sunday advised Malaysians in France "to exercise caution and remain vigilant" due to the protests.

"While travel to France remains unrestricted, Malaysians are advised to consider postponing non-essential travel until the situation improves," it said in a statement.

China warned its citizens traveling to France to take safety precautions, state broadcaster CCTV reported Monday, after town halls and shops were looted and set on fire at the weekend. — Agence France-Presse