Thailand looks to enhance military ties with China

Thailand expects to enhance cooperation with China in defense industry and joint military exercises, in order to promote the development of military ties between the two countries, said Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

Prayut made the remarks in a meeting with Xu Qiliang, vice-chairman of China's Central Military Commission, on Friday in Bangkok.

He said China-Thailand friendship enjoys a time-honored history. Thailand highly values its cooperation with China, as well as the long-term disinterested assistance from Beijing.

Prayut added that Thailand appreciates and supports the "One Belt One Road" strategy promoted by the Chinese government, and is willing to link their domestic connectivity construction to the regional strategy, which will turn the China-Thailand railway into the new symbol of friendship between the two countries.

"Thailand welcomes Chinese companies to participate in developing Thai economic special zones. I hope the two sides to enhance cooperation in agriculture, tourism and defense industry, as well as joint military exercise, with a stronger bilateral military ties," he said.

Xu said China and Thailand have reached fruitful achievements in all cooperative areas, since the two countries established the diplomatic relations 40 years ago.

"The gradual implementation of the 'One Belt One Road' strategy will promote further strategic cooperation between China and related countries, complement advantages with each other, and accelerate regional development and stabilities," Xu said.

China upholds the guideline for neighborhood diplomacy featuring amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, working with Thailand to further enrich the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership, he added.

Xu noted that the two sides can strengthen joint military exercises, military medical exchanges, weaponry and technology cooperation, as well as enhance multilateral cooperation in security and counter terrorism affairs.