KATHMANDU, Nepal – The United States criticized Nepal Monday for deporting 18 Tibetans to China over the weekend, saying the move violated international norms on treatment of asylum seekers.
The Tibetans deported Saturday were part of a 21-member group that fled to Nepal in April. They were arrested for illegally entering the Himalayan kingdom.
“The U.S. government deplores the government of Nepal’s deportation of 18 Tibetan asylum seekers, including eight minors, to China,” the U.S. Embassy said in a statement.
“This action not only violates international norms and practices regarding the human treatment of asylum seekers, but also tarnishes the government of Nepal’s long-standing and well-deserved reputation for tolerance and hospitality.”
There was no comment from the Nepali government.
In Beijing, China’s Foreign Ministry has said the 18 were repatriated in line with international law after entering Nepal illegally.
The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees has also said the decision violates international refugee law on “refoulment” – the expulsion of people to a country where their rights may be abused.
Previously, Tibetans who cross the mountainous border into Nepal have been handed over to the UNHCR, which resettled them in neighboring India.
India is home to the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, and a large Tibetan community.
Nepal is home to more than 20,000 Tibetans, the second largest number outside Tibet after India.
