Thailand has always supported the one-China policy and wished to improve the two countries' friendly relations, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Chavalit Yongchaiyudh said in Bangkok Thursday.  

"The government, the people and the military of Thailand fully understand the Chinese government and people's feeling over the issue," Chavalit told visiting Chinese Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan when talking about Thai government's support to the one-China policy.

Thailand and China have established close friendship on the bases of mutual respect, mutual trust and mutual help and the Thai government was ready to push forward the relations with the Chinese government, he said.

"The friendship between China and Thailand has continuously made new headway featuring an all-dimensional, in-depth and high-level relationship," said Cao during his meeting with Chavalit.

The Chinese government would continue its efforts to enhance its coordination and cooperation with the Thai government in searching effective ways to face with challenges in the security field so as to safeguard peace and stability in the region and the world, said Cao, who is also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and state councilor.

Cao arrived here early Wednesday. Thailand was the last leg of his three-nation Asian trip which also took him to India and Pakistan. He would end his visit to Thailand on Saturday.

(Xinhua News Agency April 2, 2004)