H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, led a high-level delegation on an official visit to the People’s Republic of China from February 5-8, 2025, at the invitation of the Chinese government. The visit aimed to enhance strategic cooperation between Thailand and China in the fields of economy, trade, investment, technology, and infrastructure development.
Enhancing Thailand-China Bilateral Relations
During the visit, H.E. Prime Minister of Thailand paid a courtesy call on H.E. President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The two leaders exchanged views on strengthening their partnership under the framework of the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership”, which has been a foundation of the Thailand-China relationship for years.
Additionally, H.E. Prime Minister of Thailand held discussions with H.E. Premier Li Qiang of China, focusing on expanding economic, trade, and investment cooperation. The two leaders also witnessed the signing of several agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) between their respective government agencies.
Strengthening Economic and Infrastructure Cooperation
Thailand and China expressed their shared commitment to enhancing economic cooperation. China pledged its support for key infrastructure projects in Thailand, particularly the Bangkok-Nong Khai High-Speed Railway, which is set to enhance regional logistics efficiency by connecting with the China-Laos Railway. Additionally, the two countries discussed ways to facilitate trade in agriculture and key Thai export products.
On investment, H.E. Prime Minister of Thailand reaffirmed Thailand’s readiness to welcome Chinese investors, particularly in high-tech industries, electric vehicles (EV), artificial intelligence (AI), digital economy, and clean energy. These sectors align with Thailand’s strategy to drive high-value economic growth.
Expanding Collaboration in Science, Technology, and Education
A significant achievement of the visit was the agreement to deepen cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, especially in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data, where China has a competitive edge and can serve as a key strategic partner for Thailand. The two nations also agreed to expand educational cooperation by increasing opportunities for Thai students to study and intern at leading Chinese universities, particularly in technology, engineering, and digital industries.
Regional Cooperation and International Affairs
The discussions between H.E. Prime Minister of Thailand and H.E. President of China also covered regional stability and ASEAN-China cooperation, with a shared commitment to supporting new regional initiatives that promote security and sustainable development.
Attending the Opening Ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin
Later in the visit, H.E. Prime Minister of Thailand traveled to Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, at the invitation of H.E. President of China, to attend the Opening Ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games. This participation reflects the strong cultural and sports cooperation between the two countries.
Thailand and China: Advancing Cooperation for the Future
This visit marks a new milestone in Thailand-China relations, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to working together to advance projects with positive economic and social impact, particularly in trade, investment, technology, and scientific research.
The high-level discussions and agreements signed further strengthen the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” between Thailand and China, ensuring that both nations continue to deepen their collaboration for mutual prosperity and long-term stability.
