Thailand, China seals six agreements during Chinese vice president’s visit

BANGKOK, December 25 (TNA) - Thailand and China sealed six cooperation development agreements during the official visit by Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping to Bangkok from December 22 to 24. The signings of the agreements were witnessed by Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and Xi. They include an agreement on cultural cooperation for the period of 2011-2013; a currency swap agreement between the central banks of both countries; and four memorandum of understandings (MoUs) on Thailand-China cooperation for sustainable development covering road and railway development projects linking Bangkok and Chiang Mai; comprehensive water management system; clean, renewable, and alternative energy research; and marine cooperation. During his visit, Xi also met other important figures including Privy Council President and Statesman Prem Tinsulanonda, Parliament President Somsak Kiatsuranont and opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva. He also joined a round-table meeting with important persons in Thai politics including former prime ministers Anand Panyarachun, Chuan Leekpai, General Chavalit Yongchaiyudh and Banharn Silpa-archa, who all have close ties with China. Xi also visited Rattanakosinsomphot Bowonniwet School in Nakhon Pathom province that had been flooded to donate tablet computers to local students. Besides, he visited the Confucius Institute at Chulalongkorn University. The institute was jointly established by the Chulalongkorn University and Beijing University and is tasked to promote Chinese languages and cultures in Thailand and foster bilateral relations between Bangkok and Beijing. The visit of the Chinese vice president is seen as an important milestone in the development of Thailand-China long-standing relations. (TNA)