Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping has committed to fostering closer relations with Thailand during discussions with King Maha Vajiralongkorn, marking the first visit by a reigning Thai monarch to China since the establishment of diplomatic ties half a century ago. The king, accompanied by Queen Suthida, is undertaking his first official visit to China since ascending the throne nine years ago.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, President Xi referred to the relationship between China and Thailand as akin to "family," emphasizing the intention to "strengthen strategic alignment" with the Southeast Asian nation. The talks highlighted expanding cooperation on projects such as the China-Thailand railway link and ventures in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, aerospace, and the digital economy.
President Xi noted that King Vajiralongkorn's selection of China for his first significant state visit underscores the high importance placed on China-Thailand relations. Despite Thailand's historical ties with the United States during the Cold War, China has emerged as Thailand's largest trading partner, with bilateral relations warming significantly in recent years.
The two nations have intensified collaborative efforts to combat telecommunications fraud and illegal gambling operations in border regions, primarily in Myanmar, which often target Chinese citizens. Recently, Thailand extradited She Zhijiang, a Chinese national allegedly associated with a lucrative scam operation in Myanmar, after holding him in custody since 2022.
China has also advocated for a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, a close ally of Beijing, following border clashes over the summer that resulted in numerous casualties. However, the truce remains tenuous, as Thailand paused its implementation recently, citing an incident involving a landmine explosion that injured four Thai soldiers. Tensions persist, with both countries exchanging accusations of new border skirmishes.