China hopes to boost military ties with Thailand, defense minister says

China is willing to strengthen cooperation in military exercises, the defense industry and other fields with Thailand, as well as maintaining frequent high-level visits between the two militaries, a senior Chinese military official said.

Chang Wanquan, China's defense minister, made the remarks during his meeting with Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Prawit Wongsuwan in Beijing on Monday.

China and Thailand are friendly and close neighbors, Chang said. President Xi Jinping's frequent meetings with Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha have laid the consensus for developing the China-Thailand comprehensive strategic partnership and opened a new, glorious era for the two countries' relations, Chang said.

The China-Thailand relationship has been developing steadily in recent years and the two militaries have undertaken broad cooperation and achieved remarkable results, he said.

Prawit said Thailand places great importance in developing the China-Thailand comprehensive strategic partnership. Thailand will continue cooperation with China in rail projects, tourism, tackling cross-border crime and various other fields, he added.

The militaries would also deepen cooperation in training, equipment and technology, Prawit said.

Also on Monday, Chang met with Malawi Deputy Defense Minister Jappie Mhango. Chang said China is willing to enhance military cooperation with Malawi and contribute to regional and international security.

China highly values China-Malawi relations and is willing to deepen cooperation and exchanges, he said. In recent years, the two militaries have cooperated successfully in military construction, equipment and technology, and trainings.

Jappie said Malawi appreciates China's support in building up Malawi's military. Malawi attaches great importance to China-Malawi relations and hopes to deepen pragmatic cooperation in various fields, especially in the military, he added.