Thailand backs China's Silk Road initiatives: PM

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o- cha said on Friday that Thailand appreciates and supports China's initiatives of building the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and the Silk Road Economic Belt.

When meeting with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Chang Wanquan, Prayut said Thailand is willing to actively participate in relevant projects and benefit from them.

For years, the relationship between the Thai and Chinese militaries has been developing soundly, he said.

The Thai leader hoped both sides will continue to strengthen personnel exchanges and pragmatic cooperation in various fields so as to promote the bilateral ties in an all-around way.

The two countries have enjoyed a close and amicable relationship, with frequent high-level exchanges and increased cooperation in such areas as trade, culture and infrastructure development, according to the premier.

Chang said China has always attached much importance to developing ties between the Chinese and Thai militaries.

China is willing to maintain strategic dialogue with Thailand, deepen bilateral cooperation in joint training, as well as multilateral security and defense industry, and make concerted efforts to safeguard regional security and stability, he said.

During his visit, Chang also met with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Prawit Wongsuwon.