Thai PM eyes 'Golden Year of Friendship' with China

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra meets with Chinese Ambassador to Thailand Han Zhiqiang at the Ivory Room in the Government House in Bangkok on Oct 16, 2024. （Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn）

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra met with Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, Han Zhiqiang, at the Ivory Room in the Government House in Bangkok on Wednesday.

At a meeting, the two parties exchanged ideas on the celebration of the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations next year, and also other key initiatives for bilateral cooperation.

Han congratulated Paetongtarn on her appointment as prime minister and reaffirmed China's commitment to deepening the cooperation and friendship between the two countries.

As next year will be "Golden Year of Friendship" for the two partners, Paetongtarn said that the kingdom will join hands with China in elevating mutually beneficial relations, especially in trade, investment in emerging industries, and cultural exchanges.

Both sides agreed to organize cultural exchange activities starting later this year and continuing throughout next year.

Mentioning the overall donation from Chinese enterprises and overseas Chinese associations worth 40 million bahts to flood-torn victims in Thailand, Paetongtarn expressed appreciation and gratitude.

According to Thai government spokesman Jirayu Huangsab, Paetongtarn also invited Chinese companies to continue investment in Thailand by building data centers, electric vehicle manufacturing bases, and to provide 6G services.