Beijing : China and Thailand marked an important diplomatic moment on Friday as President Xi Jinping met Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida in Beijing. The meeting was part of the first state visit to China by a reigning Thai monarch since the two countries established diplomatic relations 50 years ago.

President Xi welcomed the royal couple and described the visit as a milestone in the long friendship between the two nations. Chinese officials highlighted the significance of the occasion, saying it reflects China’s commitment to being a reliable partner to Thailand and its neighbours in Southeast Asia.

The visit carries strong symbolic value. It comes at a time when China is seeking to strengthen its role in the region, and Thailand is working to balance its ties with major global powers. Analysts say the presence of the Thai king in Beijing sends a clear message about the importance both countries place on their relationship.

Economic ties between China and Thailand are already deep, with China standing as one of Thailand’s largest trading partners. Thailand imported around 80 billion dollars worth of goods from China in the past year. Both sides are now looking to improve cooperation in areas such as trade, infrastructure, the digital economy and green development.

Chinese authorities said they are ready to work with Thailand on major projects, including the long discussed China Thailand railway. They also expressed interest in expanding agricultural trade and advancing cooperation in areas like technology and clean energy.

The Thai Royal Household has described the visit as a reflection of warm relations, trust and understanding between the two nations. While no major new agreements were announced during the meetings, both sides stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation and building on five decades of partnership.

Observers say the visit helps China present itself as a stable and dependable friend in a region where strategic competition has been increasing. For Thailand, the royal visit highlights its effort to maintain close ties with all major partners while protecting its national interests.

Officials in both countries are expected to release more details about future cooperation in the coming weeks.