On July 1, 2008, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej at the Great Hall of the People.

China and Thailand, as good neighbors, brothers and partners, share a profound traditional friendship. Both sides have witnessed the constant growth of bilateral relations since forging diplomatic ties 33 years ago. The development of China-Thailand relations is always in the front rank of relations between China and other neighboring nations, Hu noted. Hu spoke highly of Thailand's priority in developing relations with China, and applauded Thailand's support of China in some major issues concerning Taiwan, Tibet and the Beijing Olympic Games. Hu said that China values traditional friendship with Thailand and attaches importance to developing ties with Thailand. It is an unswerving policy of the Chinese government to adhere to China-Thailand good-neighborly friendship and long-term cooperation. China would make joint efforts with Thailand to expand and deepen bilateral strategic cooperation based on the goals set in the joint action plan on China-Thailand strategic cooperation to achieve win-win results and common development, the president said.

Samak said the two nations had enjoyed comprehensive development of their bilateral relations in the past 33 years and the friendship between the two sides is deeply rooted in the hearts of both peoples. Thailand always adheres to the one-China policy, he noted. Samak expressed appreciation for China's capacity to cope with disaster, believing that the Chinese people in the earthquake-hit region would be sure to overcome difficulties and rebuild their homes. The Beijing Olympic Games is a grand event for the people of Asia and the world at large. Thailand opposes politicizing the Olympics and wishes success for the Games, Samak said. He said Thailand would work with China to increase cooperation and push forward the growth of bilateral relations.

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand Zhang Jiuhuan and other officials attended the meeting.