Chinese President Xi Jinping and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul held a strategic dialogue in Gyeongju, the Republic of Korea (ROK), on Friday, signaling deepened cooperation between Asia's second- and ninth-largest economies. The meeting, held on the sidelines of a multilateral summit, focused on trade facilitation, regional security, and cultural exchanges.
Observers note the talks likely addressed Thailand's $28 billion Land Bridge project – a key infrastructure initiative connecting the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Thailand – which could complement China's Belt and Road Initiative. "China stands ready to share development opportunities with Thailand," President Xi stated, emphasizing mutual benefits in green energy and digital transformation sectors.
The leaders also discussed maintaining stability in the Mekong River region and enhancing people-to-people exchanges through simplified visa procedures. The choice of Gyeongju, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as "the museum without walls," underscored the cultural dimension of Asia's evolving diplomatic landscape.
