HAKEEM AL-ARAIBI

We welcome the Thai Government’s decision to allow Mr al-Araibi to return to Australia.

We know all Australians will deeply appreciate the decision, allowing him to return to his wife, family and friends.

The outpouring of support – from the Pascoe Vale Football Club, to the advocacy of Craig Foster and the Football Federation of Australia and so many others – is a testament to how deeply Mr al-Araibi’s situation touched Australians.

We also appreciate the efforts of Australian officials and diplomats in working towards this outcome.

We commend Thailand’s commitment to due process and human rights which had led the Thai Government to take this decision.

The people of Australia have a great affection for Thailand and the Thai people.

Australia and Thailand enjoy a long, deep and enduring partnership. We look forward to continuing to strengthen the friendship and partnership between our two nations.

We also acknowledge the constructive dialogue that we have had with Bahrain in helping to resolve this issue. Australia and Bahrain share an important and longstanding relationship which we will continue to build upon.