Thailand inviting China to invest in railway system

BANGKOK, Oct 26 (TNA) – Thailand will invite China to invest in the Thai railway system as part of the cooperation between the two countries, according to a statement from Government House.

Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva discussed the matter during his meeting on Sunday with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao at the Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa in Prachuab Khirikhan on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit, its related meetings and the 4th East Asia Summit.

Thailand is China’s third largest trading partner in ASEAN, and both countries can apply bilateral trade via the established bilateral trade committee.

Regarding cooperation on railways and energy, China has a positive position in providing financial support. China also sees the necessity of enhancing agricultural trade, and in promoting tourism.

On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of Thailand-China relations, the Chinese government is pleased to strengthen strategic cooperation with Thailand, according to the statement.

Mr Abhisit stressed that Thailand has supported China’s constructive role in ASEAN, and will further strengthen the bilateral cooperation.

The Thai Government also appreciated the warm welcome and strengthened cooperation with the China during Mr Abhisit’s visit in June. Afterward, Thailand saw growing interest among Chinese businesspersons and tourists in investing and travelling in Thailand.

Mr Abhisit invited the Chinese premier to visit Thailand on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations in 2010.

In the next two weeks, the leadership of the Communist Party of China will visit Thailand to strengthen bilateral relations.

The Thai prime minister thanked China for its cooperation with ASEAN in various sectors. Although Thailand’s ASEAN chairmanship ends this year, Bangkok is willing to continue to support China’s role in ASEAN, and to work to materialise the Chiang Mai Initiative.

Mr Abhisit stressed that Thailand has been supporting China’s constructive role in ASEAN, and will further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Thailand will push implementation of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) by closely following the implementations of relevant committees, he said.

The Chinese premier thanked Thailand for inviting China to visit Thailand several times, and hoped to visit Thailand again. The two countries will preserve their traditional relations, being members of the same family. (TNA)