Chinese FM visits Thailand to boost bilateral relations

（Xinhua）  08:24, May 02, 2013  

BANGKOK, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Foreign Minster Wang Yi met with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Wednesday, pledging to further promote bilateral relations.

Speaking highly of the time-honored friendly relations between the two nations, Yingluck said Thailand is willing to deepen comprehensive cooperation with China by increasing political communication and maintaining the momentum of strong growth in bilateral trade.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of strategical partnership between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). As the country coordinator of China-ASEAN relations, Thailand will continue to facilitate cooperation in various fields between the two sides, Yingluck said.

The lady prime minister also welcomed more Chinese people to visit the kingdom.

Wang said China's new leadership, which took office in March, will continue to enrich its traditional friendship with Thailand and transform the political ties between the two countries into a strong driving force to boost mutual beneficial cooperation.

The foreign minister suggested that China and Thailand deepen cooperation in fields of water management, railway, new energy and education and expand exchanges in fields of science, defence, tourism, etc.

He said China expects to closely coordinate with Thailand in dealing with international and regional issues.

Wang also held talks with Suraporn Tovichakchaikul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand and met with Thai Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda and former deputy Prime Minister Surakiart Sathirathai.

At the invitation of Suraporn, Wang arrived in Bangkok on Tuesday for a two-day official visit. This is the first leg of his six-day Southeast Asian trip which will also take him to Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei.