In a significant step towards strengthening regional ties, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Thai counterpart Maris Sangiampongsa co-chaired the second meeting of the Consultation Mechanism between the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of China and Thailand in Beijing on Tuesday.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, hailed China and Thailand as “good neighbors, relatives, and friends.” He emphasized that the two nations have consistently upheld mutual trust and progressed hand in hand. “China regards Thailand as a trustworthy partner and a force for peace and stability in the region,” Wang said, expressing support for Thailand’s growing role in global and regional affairs.
Highlighting the robust economic ties, Wang noted that China has been Thailand’s largest trading partner for over a decade and its largest source of foreign investment. He added that more than three million Chinese tourists have visited Thailand this year, reflecting deepening people-to-people connections.
Wang urged both countries to enhance connectivity, strengthen law enforcement and security cooperation, and jointly combat cross-border crimes such as internet gambling and telecom fraud. He encouraged making the most of the “visa-free era”—a mutual visa exemption agreement that came into effect on March 1—to expand exchanges and foster youth interactions to carry forward the longstanding friendship.
Maris Sangiampongsa affirmed Thailand’s commitment to its relationship with China, reiterating adherence to the one-China policy. “Thailand attaches great importance to its relationship with China and is dedicated to ensuring the sustainable and long-term development of our bilateral relations,” Maris stated. He expressed readiness to work closely with China to maintain high-level exchanges, deepen cultural ties, and strengthen practical cooperation in areas like the digital economy, electric vehicles, renewable energy, and tourism.
The meeting also addressed regional issues, including East Asia regional cooperation, Lancang-Mekong cooperation, and the situation in Myanmar. Both sides agreed on the importance of collaboration in these areas to promote regional stability and development.
The enhanced partnership between China and Thailand is expected to have significant implications for business professionals, academics, and global readers interested in Asia’s evolving political and economic landscape. The commitment to deepen cooperation signals new opportunities for investors, scholars, and cultural explorers alike.
Reference(s):
Chinese, Thai FMs pledge to expand exchanges, enhance cooperation
cgtn.com
