Li Ruihuan, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), met with Meechai Ruechupan, speaker of the Senate of Thailand in Beijing on November 24.

Calling Meechai Ruechupan "an old friend" of the Chinese people, Li said that the speaker has visited China several times, and contributed to promoting exchanges between Thailand's Senate and the CPPCC. He said he believes that Meechai Ruechupan's China visit will help promote Sino-Thai friendship and cooperation.

Li observed long-standing exchanges between China and Thailand. Both countries are closely related geographically and culturally. He added that bilateral relations have been developing smoothly since the establishment of diplomatic relations 24 years ago.

Li also noted a Sino-Thai joint statement on the development of cooperation in the 21st century signed early this year, visits to Thailand by Chinese President Jiang Zemin and top legislator Li Peng and visits of Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai to China.

Li added that cooperation in politics, economics, culture, science and technology has steadily progressed and both countries have had close consultations on both international and regional issues.

Sino-Thai relations provide an excellent model for developing friendly relations between nations, Li said, stating that bilateral ties between China and Thailand show enormous promise in the new century.

Meechai Ruechupan said that the Thai government and its people are grateful for China's support during the Asian financial crisis, adding that he will make concerted efforts to promote Sino-Thai friendship as well as regional stability, world peace and prosperity.