China’s Xi Vows Closer Ties as Thai King Makes First Official Visit

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) review an honor guard during a welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on November 14, 2025. (Photo by TINGSHU WANG / POOL / AFP)

Chinese President Xi Jinping promised closer ties with Thailand on Friday during talks with the first reigning Thai monarch to visit the country since diplomatic ties were established 50 years ago.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who has rarely made overseas state visits since he ascended the throne nine years ago, is in Beijing with his wife Queen Suthida for his first official visit to China.

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