PM marks 45-year ties with China

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has sent a congratulatory message to his Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Thailand today.

In his message, published by the Foreign Affairs Ministry yesterday, Gen Prayut reflected on the “journey of friendship and cooperation between Thailand and China”.

He called the decades-long relationship distinguished because of the “precious memories and weathering of difficult periods together” over the years.

“Over the past 45 years, Thailand and China have made remarkable progress in developing our relationship into a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Partnership founded on the principles of the One-China Policy, mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual benefit, which include a common vision of peace, prosperity and sustainable development,” he said.

Gen Prayut said that Thai and Chinese leaders have long shared a friendly rapport through engagements and open communication.

He told Mr Li that on the topic of the economy, the trade volume between Thailand and China has increased 3,000-fold, while two-way investment initiatives have amounted to over US$12 billion since the establishment of diplomatic relations 45 years ago.

He said China is now the kingdom’s largest trading partner, while Chinese tourists make up the largest number of tourists visiting Thailand.

Both countries place importance on promoting connectivity with one another and the region through the Thailand-China Railway Cooperation Project, he said.

“As we advance towards the next decade of relations amid global uncertainties, including the current Covid-19 situation, it’s even more imperative for Thailand and China to join hands in the spirit of friendship and solidarity to address such challenges before us,” Gen Prayut said.