Young people have a vital role to play in shaping the next 50 years of China–Thailand relations, Thai Ambassador to China Chatchai Viriyavejakul said at Renmin University of China on September 21, 2026.

Chatchai delivered a keynote speech at the 19th Ambassador Forum, hosted by the university’s Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies. Speaking on the theme of China and Thailand as one family working toward a shared future, he explored the two countries’ historical and cultural connections and encouraged younger generations to deepen mutual understanding through travel, study and collaboration.

Before the speech, the ambassador and his delegation met with Zheng Xinye, vice president of the university. Wang Wen, dean of both the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies and the School of Global Leadership, also attended the meeting.

Chatchai traced the idea that China and Thailand are “one family” to generations of close contact. Migrants from Fujian, Guangdong and Hainan settled in Thailand, bringing languages, food and customs that became woven into Thai life.

Those connections remain visible today. He pointed to clay pots and woks introduced from China, similarities between Thai and Chinese stir-frying techniques, and Teochew words that have entered everyday Thai vocabulary. Chinese-style buildings in Bangkok’s Chinatown and Thai porcelain incorporating different cultural influences also reflect this history of exchange.

Trade and investment have added new dimensions to the relationship. Chatchai highlighted the popularity of Thai durian among Chinese consumers and the growing presence of Chinese electric vehicle brands, including BYD and Changan, in Thailand. He said Thailand hopes to expand cooperation with China on local electric vehicle manufacturing.

Mutual visa exemptions have also made travel easier, allowing more people to experience each other’s countries firsthand.

Turning to the future, Chatchai emphasized the importance of people-to-people exchanges. Governments and official engagement have played a major role in advancing bilateral ties over the past 50 years, he said. Deepening those ties over the next 50 years will require greater participation from the wider public, especially young people.

He noted that some young Thais who have not visited China in recent years still rely on preconceptions or outdated information. He encouraged them to step outside their comfort zones and see contemporary China for themselves.