Jiang Zemin Meets Thai Privy Council President

Chinese President Meets Privy Council President of Thailand

President Jiang Zemin said Thursday that China hopes its relationship with Thailand will grow to a new level in the new millennium.

Jiang made the remark during a meeting with Prem Tinsulanonda, president of the Privy Council of Thailand and former Thai prime minister, who is on a week-long visit to China.

Jiang described Prem as an "old friend of the Chinese people," and said that the former prime minister has made tremendous efforts for Sino-Thai friendship, and his current visit will help promote bilateral relations.

As two friendly neighbors, China and Thailand have witnessed major developments of their relations since the two established diplomatic ties 25 years ago, the Chinese president said.

Jiang also briefed Prem on China's strategy to develop its vast western region.

Prem said that Thailand and China have similarities in their economic development, as both nations are working hard to develop their underdeveloped areas.

He also expressed good wishes for China's economic growth. The Thai guests are here in China at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs.