Xi calls for next 50 years of stronger China-Thailand ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for joint efforts to strengthen the China-Thailand community with a shared future for another 50 years.

Xi made the remarks when meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Friday in Lima, Peru, where the two leaders are attending the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting.

"I'd like to extend my congratulations on your election as Prime Minister of Thailand. China firmly supports the smooth governance of the new Thai government led by you and stands ready to enhance synergy of development strategies with Thailand to jointly advance the modernization process in our countries. China and Thailand are close and friendly neighbors, as well as one family with renewed vigor," Xi said.

"During my visit to Thailand in November 2022, I reached important consensus with Thai leaders on building a China-Thailand community with a shared future. I'm glad to see the outcomes of my visit effectively implemented. The two sides have made positive progress in cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, science, technology and people-to-people exchanges, bringing tangible benefits to the people of the two countries. Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, and witness the celebration of the Golden 50 Years of China-Thailand Friendship. Standing at a new historical starting point, the two sides should carry forward the traditional friendship between China and Thailand, deepen cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, scientific and technological innovation, digital economy, culture and education, so as to push for greater progress in the China-Thailand community with a shared future for another 50 years, and make positive contributions to peace and stability in the region," Xi said.

Xi arrived in the Peruvian capital earlier on Thursday for the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and a state visit to the Latin American country at the invitation of Peruvian President Dina Boluarte.

Scheduled for Friday and Saturday in Lima, this year's APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting takes place under the theme "Empower, Include, Grow", gathering heads of state and other dignitaries from 21 member economies across the Asia-Pacific region, including China, the United States, and other major economies in Southeast Asia.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba arrived for a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Peru's capital Lima on Friday.

The bilateral meeting takes place on the sidelines of the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, which is being held on Friday and Saturday in Lima. Under the theme "Empower, Include, Grow," the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting will gather leaders from 21 member economies across the Asia-Pacific, including the United States and China, as well as other major economies in Southeast Asia.