Report: China may help Thailand in high-speed railway projects

China has agreed to invest in Thailand's first high-speed railway, which was part of the talks between the two countries during Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister's visit to China on July 16-23.

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban Wednesday reported to Thai Cabinet that China will provide investment, technology and management support for the 240-kilometre railway line from Bangkok to province of Rayong, the country's official MCOT news agency reported.

"There might be an agreement when Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva visits China in the near future," said Suthep.

Suthep also disclosed that the two countries may also cooperate in railway projects at the Thai-Lao border of Thailand's Nong Khai province to Laos and China. The line is expected to also link southern Thailand to Malaysia.

He praised the quality of China's high-speed railway system, adding that Chinese technology for high-speed trains is highly advanced.

China has said it would promote Thailand as a tourist destination among Chinese. It will as well consider buying more rice from Thailand, while adding the rail link development will provide convenience of people in the region to travel and enhance a better logistics and transport system.

By People's Daily Online/Agencies