BANGKOK, July 11 — Thailand and China have agreed to strengthen their already strong bilateral relations at all levels while preparations have been made to mark the 40th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic ties.
Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phungketkeao arrived in China on an official visit earlier today to join the 2nd China-Thailand Strategic Dialogue in Beijing.
The event was co-chaired by Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Liu Zhenmin.
Thailand and China held talks to discuss the strategic agenda for cooperation, agreeing that both sides would increase the alliance on every level.
In a joint press conference after the meeting, Minister Liu said China sees Thailand as a friend, partner, and good relative.
He said China was ready to promote bilateral cooperation on trade and investment between the two countries, as well as give full cooperation to ASEAN, to ensure smooth relations.
In response, Mr Sihasak said the two sides agreed that Thai-Chinese relations and the partnership would not only benefit the two countries, but also the entire region.
On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China in 2015, both sides attach high importance to organizing special events, while Thailand proposes to set up a national committee to manage this auspicious occasion.
He said Thailand also aimed to organize specific activities such as establishment of a fund for an educational and cultural exchange program and a 40th anniversary book to commemorate the celebration.
Privy Council President General Prem Tinsulanonda has been invited to pay an official visit to China on this special occasion.
Mr Sihasak said that he used his visit to update China on Thailand’s political developments, including efforts to achieve national reform by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) through a three-phase roadmap with the main objective to restore political stability and create an environment conducive to long-term economic development.
Mr Liu expressed his understanding and support for the work of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) to bring back peace and stability, said Mr Sihasak.
Regarding ASEAN-China relations, Mr Sihasak said Thailand supported China’s initiative to establish the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to provide further funding for countries in Asia for developing infrastructure, enhancing connectivity in the region, and promoting projects under a Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity.
Thailand fully supported China to maintain the momentum and ensure progress in the South China Sea issue.
He said Thailand hopes that ASEAN-China relations will be a pillar for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
