Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Visit Thailand as Nations Deepen Strategic Cooperation
Bangkok, The Gulf Observer: Chinese Premier Li Qiang has accepted an invitation to visit Thailand this year, as both nations seek to enhance cooperation in key future industries, including electric vehicles (EVs) and artificial intelligence (AI).
The announcement follows Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s official visit to China, which concluded on Saturday and marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The visit aimed to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, expand collaboration across multiple sectors, and lay the foundation for the next five decades of mutual growth.
During high-level discussions, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing economic cooperation, technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and security coordination. One of the key agreements reached was the further development of the second phase of Thailand’s high-speed rail project. The railway, spanning 357 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai, is expected to be completed by 2032, facilitating seamless cross-border travel to Laos and China while boosting regional trade.
Thailand also reiterated its firm support for the One-China Policy, emphasizing its stance on China’s territorial integrity, including Taiwan-related issues. Additionally, both countries pledged to collaborate on pressing global challenges such as climate change, regional security, and cybercrime.
In a social media statement, Prime Minister Paetongtarn highlighted key areas of future cooperation, including advancements in semiconductors, digital economy, nuclear technology, green energy, finance, trade, and investment. She also underscored commitments to tackling PM2.5 air pollution and combating transnational crime.
Another highlight of her visit was attending the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, where Thailand acknowledged China’s role as a key host of the event. Furthermore, Thailand reaffirmed its support for China’s global initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative, and agreed to strengthen ties in agriculture, biotechnology, and healthcare.
In a symbolic gesture of enduring friendship, China has agreed to send a new pair of giant pandas to Thailand, continuing the tradition of “panda diplomacy” between the two nations. This marks the second time China has gifted pandas to Thailand, further cementing their longstanding ties.
