Hanoi (VNA) – The Thai Government’s establishment of diplomatic ties with Vietnam 40 years ago was based on their good neighbourliness and friendliness, said a Thai representative who inked a joint communiqué setting up relations with Vietnam in 1976.

Bhichay Rattakul, former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Thailand, made the remark while speaking to the Vietnam News Agency on the sidelines of a ceremony in Hanoi on August 9 to mark the 40th anniversary of bilateral relations (August 6, 1976).

At that time, the Thai Government declared that it would restore all relationships and cooperation with neghbouring countries, including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, he said.

He noted Vietnamese – Thai relations have developed strongly over the last four decades, enjoying warm economic, culture and political relations.

Bilateral ties have entered a new chapter in history and will continue flourishing in the future, Bhichay Rattakul said.

He added though it is not easy to turn ASEAN, of which both countries are members, into a strong economic community, Vietnam and Thailand are completely able to reinforce their amity and partnership right at present.-VNA
VNA