GYEONGJU, South Korea — Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed strong support for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s position against legalizing casinos, while pledging to deepen cooperation with Thailand on cybersecurity, trade, tourism, and agricultural exports, including the purchase of 500,000 tons of Thai rice.
The two leaders met on October 31 on the sidelines of the APEC Leaders’ Meeting, in what observers described as one of the most cordial exchanges between the two nations in recent years. The discussion marked renewed momentum in Thai–Chinese relations ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025.
At the outset, President Xi conveyed his condolences over the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother of Thailand, to which Prime Minister Anutin expressed deep gratitude and appreciation.
During the talks, both sides reviewed the outcomes of China’s recent Fourth Plenum of the 20th Central Committee and reaffirmed their shared vision for regional prosperity. Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that the upcoming 50-year milestone presents a key opportunity to redefine Thailand–China cooperation for a more secure and prosperous future.
President Xi confirmed China’s readiness to advance collaboration in trade, investment, tourism, and people-to-people connectivity. Prime Minister Anutin highlighted opportunities in science, innovation, clean energy, and digital technology—sectors both countries see as central to long-term economic growth.
On the security front, President Xi and Prime Minister Anutin agreed to strengthen cooperation in tackling cybercrime, which both leaders identified as a growing threat to economic and social stability. Anutin described cybercrime suppression as a national priority and welcomed China’s commitment to share intelligence and capacity-building resources across the region.
The Thai leader also reaffirmed that his government has no policy to use casinos as an economic stimulus, saying Thailand can grow sustainably by relying on its people, products, and innovation rather than gambling revenue. President Xi commended this stance, adding that China also discourages its citizens from traveling abroad for gambling, as it undermines social well-being.
Tourism and trade were also key themes of the meeting. Anutin invited more Chinese visitors to return to Thailand under enhanced safety measures, while discussions on China’s potential purchase of 500,000 tons of Thai rice progressed positively. China consumes nearly 150 million tons of rice annually, and both leaders expressed optimism that trade volumes will continue to grow.
Prime Minister Anutin also invited the Chinese premier to attend the upcoming Mekong–Lancang Cooperation Summit in Thailand later this year. The meeting concluded on a warm and constructive note, with both countries reaffirming trust and friendship as the foundation for deeper cooperation in the years ahead.
