Taipei - Taiwan warned its citizens Wednesday to be cautious when traveling in Thailand as anti-government protests are escalating, forcing the temporary closure of Bangkok's international airport.

The Foreign Ministry urged Taiwanese who work or travel in Thailand to avoid going to places where the protests are taking place. In case of emergency, they should dial a 24-hour hotline set up by Taiwan's representative office in Bangkok for help.

The ministry advised Taiwanese who are in Thailand or those who plan to travel there to check with airlines before going to the airport, as many flights between Bangkok and Taipei have been canceled or delayed.

Thai protestors, determined to topple the government, laid siege to Suvarnabhumi International Airport Tuesday evening to prevent the return of Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, who was scheduled to arrive Wednesday after having attending the APEC summit in Peru.

At least two Taiwan airlines' flights which were due to return to Taipei Tuesday evening were cancelled.

On Wednesday, a dozen Taiwan-Bangkok flights were either cancelled or delayed. Several Taiwan-Europe flights via Bangkok were also affected. (dpa)