Australia won't welcome foreign tourists until at least 2022

15 Sept 01:07 Key points summarised by AI

Australia will keep its borders closed to foreign tourists until at least 2022, prioritizing the return of vaccinated citizens, skilled migrants, and international students first.
The government targets an 80% full vaccination rate for its population aged 16 and older as the benchmark for lifting external border restrictions.
Tourism operators, facing significant economic losses, urge the government to allow international visitors by March 2022, expressing frustration over the lack of detailed plans.
Severe travel restrictions, in place since March 2020, have caused the lowest immigration levels since WWII and separated many families.
While considering future quarantine-free travel with select countries, current entry for approved individuals still mandates a two-week hotel quarantine.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.