Interview: Thai PM reaffirms enduring strength of relations with China

BANGKOK, Nov. 26 (Xinhua) -- The long-standing friendship and mutual support and goodwill between Thailand and China will extend far beyond the 50 years of diplomatic relations, said Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in a recent interview with Xinhua.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of the Kingdom of Thailand's recent state visit to China highlighted the deep trust and enduring friendship between the two countries, which was "another historic page worthy of remembrance," added the prime minister.

Anutin, who accompanied the king on the visit from Nov. 13 to 17, said he personally witnessed the "exceptionally high-level reception" extended to the Thai monarch, which carries immeasurable significance for bilateral relations.

The two heads of state treated each other like long-standing friends, and the two sides reached an important consensus on advancing bilateral cooperation, said the prime minister.

Anutin said that centuries of cultural affinity and people-to-people exchanges continue to form the solid foundation of the China-Thailand relations.

Bilateral cooperation, the prime minister said, is advancing across a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, technology, infrastructure and education.

He highlighted progress in digital development, logistics cooperation, and regional connectivity, stressing that Thailand's strategic position in ASEAN enables it to play a constructive role in promoting regional integration alongside China.

He noted that China's support for Thailand's high-speed rail development demonstrates the depth of cooperation in connectivity and will help both sides enhance industrial value chains and regional economic integration.

As Thailand prepares to host the next Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Leaders' Meeting, Anutin said member countries continue to collaborate closely in industry, energy and agriculture, contributing significantly to regional food security.

On security cooperation, Anutin reiterated Thailand's determination to work with other countries to combat online fraud and transnational crime. Thai authorities have taken firm action against criminal groups and repatriated offenders, he said, emphasizing that Thailand "will not serve as a safe haven for criminal activities."

"Looking ahead, we remain confident that China-Thailand cooperation will continue to grow from strength to strength." Anutin said. Enditem