BANGKOK – Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Thailand culminated in the third round of China-Thailand Foreign Ministers’ consultations on Friday, hosted by Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Sarawut Sa-nguanwongkitti. The talks underscored deepening strategic ties amid evolving regional dynamics.
Reflecting on five decades of diplomacy, Wang noted the foundational agreement between President Xi Jinping and King Maha Vajiralongkorn for a shared future community. With China’s 15th Five-Year Plan kicking off and Thailand’s administration in its nascent stage, both leaders pledged to operationalize key consensuses, propel modernization drives, and uphold true multilateralism.
Positioning Thailand centrally in its neighborhood policy, China prioritizes relations built on respect and parity. Wang called for ongoing Thai backing of China’s reunification goals. Commitments were made to high-level interactions, tackling transnational crime, and co-promoting international endeavors.
A key focus was de-escalation in Southeast Asia. Wang stressed dialogue over confrontation in disputes, specifically appealing to Thailand and Cambodia for calm, dialogue-friendly conditions, and prompt border resolution. China stands ready to facilitate reconciliation.
Sarawut reiterated Thailand’s commitment to China relations and the One-China policy, vowing enhanced collaboration against online fraud, gambling, and in trade links. Exchanges on Lancang-Mekong and East Asian frameworks highlighted mutual interests, fortifying a partnership poised for greater impact.
