King of Thailand Bhumibol Adulyadej Wednesday at his residence Chitralada Villa, Dusit Palace in Bangkok, met with State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan, who was on a working visit to the kingdom at the invitation of the Thai government.

Tang, who arrived in Bangkok on Tuesday to make a three-day visit, conveyed to the king the greeting from President Hu Jintao and congratulated the monarch on his 80th birthday, which falls on December 5 this year.

Tang spoke highly of the contribution by the Thai Royal Family in promoting stable Sino-Thai relationship all through the years.

The King, expressed his appreciation for China's support for the Thai government, and for an aid of 8 million yuan (US$1.05 million) offered by China to a royal project for Thailand's hill tribe development.

Tang met with Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont on Tuesday and conveyed to the latter an invitation of visit to China.

(Xinhua News Agency March 1, 2007)