China, Thailand pledge to expand economic, investment co-op

BEIJING - China and Thailand on Friday pledged to further enhance cooperation on economic, trade and investment so as to promote bilateral ties to a higher level.

The agreement was reached during the 3rd China-Thailand Joint Committee on Trade, Investment and Economic Cooperation Meeting held here in Beijing, which was co-chaired by Chinese State Councilor Wang Yong and visiting Thai Deputy Prime Minister Pridiyathorn Devakula.

Both sides agreed that the 21st century maritime Silk Road initiative raised by China shared extensive common interests with Thai economic development plan and provided broad space for bilateral economic cooperation.

Noting that the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties will come next year, Wang said China and Thailand should continue to expand bilateral trade and provide a favorable environment for each other's enterprises to invest.

He encouraged both sides to enhance cooperation in areas including trade, investment, railway and infrastructure of flood control.

Pridiyathorn said Thailand is willing to work with China to further tap the potential of cooperation in energy, infrastructure, trade of agricultural products, finance, information and space technology, and culture.