Bangkok: Thailand and China have taken a significant step towards enhancing their bilateral relations by signing 15 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in five strategic areas, aimed at boosting cooperation on the future economy and security. This development was marked by a meeting between Thailand's Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, and China's Premier, Li Qiang, at the Great Hall of the People.
According to Thai News Agency, the discussions focused on elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, covering infrastructure connectivity, future technologies, security, combating transnational crime, tourism, and modern trade and investment such as AI and electric vehicles. This initiative is designed to create mutual benefits for the people of both countries and promote peace and prosperity in the region.
The Chinese Premier emphasized the necessity of strengthening cooperation following the recent celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. The Thai Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the warm welcome extended to the Thai royal family during their official visit to China and reiterated Thailand's support for China's upcoming hosting of the APEC Economic Leaders' Summit in Shenzhen.
The five key areas of cooperation highlighted included Trade and Investment, Infrastructure Linkage, Security, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and Combating Transnational Crime. Thailand has requested increased imports of its high-quality fruits and processed foods by China, while also welcoming quality Chinese investments that utilize domestic raw materials and enhance Thai workers' skills.
In the Infrastructure Linkage domain, Thailand confirmed its commitment to the Thailand-China high-speed rail project, aiming for completion by 2030. Security discussions led to the agreement on establishing a Thai-Chinese foreign policy and defense dialogue mechanism, with Thailand ready to host the first meeting.
Science, Technology, and Innovation collaboration will accelerate in areas like AI, health technology, and quantum technology, while efforts to combat transnational crime will focus on enhancing cooperation through the exchange of intelligence and financial transactions to tackle online fraud networks.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged China's support in promoting Thai tourism through various platforms and affirmed Thailand's commitment to ensuring the safety of Chinese tourists. The two leaders also discussed the Thai-Cambodian border situation, with Thailand thanking China for its constructive role in encouraging dialogue.
The signing ceremony of 15 agreements covered diverse areas such as higher education, industrial chains, AI education, and deep space exploration. These agreements are expected to further solidify the partnership between the two nations.
Following the discussions, a luncheon was hosted by Premier Li Qiang in honor of the Thai delegation, marking the conclusion of a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at fostering long-term cooperation.