China congratulates Anutin Charnvirakul on being elected as Thai prime minister, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Friday.
Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the opposition Bhumjaithai Party, was elected as Thailand's new prime minister on Friday after winning a majority in a parliamentary vote.
"China and Thailand are close friends and neighbors. The two countries like one family are as close as ever," said the spokesperson in a statement posted on the ministry's website.
Noting this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the spokesperson said that China stands ready to work with Thailand to carry forward the traditional friendship, strengthen strategic communication, and deepen practical cooperation.
China also hopes to join hands with Thailand to achieve greater progress in the building of the China-Thailand community with a shared future and contribute to peace, stability, development and prosperity in the region, said the spokesperson.
Anutin is pending formal endorsement by Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn to become the 32nd prime minister of the Southeast Asian country.
In his speech after the parliamentary session, Anutin expressed gratitude to fellow Thai citizens for their support for the prime ministership, which was conveyed through members of the parliament.
The 58-year-old former construction magnate was appointed as Bhumjaithai's leader in 2012. He has since served as deputy prime minister in several administrations and held ministerial portfolios for interior and public health.
China congratulates Anutin Charnvirakul on election as Thai prime minister
