BEIJING, October 31 -- Wang Jiarui, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met today here with Surayud Chulanont, former prime minister of Thailand and currently privy councilor to King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Wang noted that the visit of the Councilor came shortly after the closing of the 4th Plenum of the 18th CPC Central Committee, which marks China’s efforts to comprehensively promote the rule of law. The Chinese side is willing to step up exchanges with Thailand and other members of the international community on this front, Wang said. China and Thailand are close to each other in terms of history and culture, he observed, and the friendship between the two countries enjoys solid popular support. Wang also said that as a friendly neighbor, China sincerely hopes that Thailand could develop stably under the leadership of its King.

Surayud said that the friendship between the people of Thailand and China have been passed down, while growing, for thousands of years. During his visit this time, he saw in China many new changes and rapid development in the areas of economy, politics, culture, and society, which are very impressive, and reflect the effectiveness of the new policies of China’s new leadership, he said, adding that Thailand, as a friend of China, feels deeply proud. Surayud also expressed hopes that the two countries could seize the opportunity of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties next year to further consolidate the popular support of Thailand-China friendship.

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