Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha met with China’s State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Chang Wanquan in Bangkok on Feb 6.

Chang spoke about the traditional friendship between China and Thailand, comparing the relationship to intimate bonds between family members.

He also said that there are many people-to-people and cultural contacts concerning citizens of the two countries.

Political mutual trust between China and Thailand has a solid basis, and the prospects of bilateral economic and trade cooperation are promising, Chang said.

He added that China has always attached importance to the relationship between the two militaries, and is ready to work with Thailand to maintain strategic communication, and deepen cooperation in areas such as joint drills, multilateral security and the defense industry.

The Thai Prime Minister said he hopes that the two countries will boost exchanges and pragmatic cooperation in various fields.

He also said that Thailand endorses and supports the “Belt and Road” strategic initiatives, which was proposed by China, and Thailand is ready to participate in — and benefit from — this cooperation.