KUALA LUMPUR – Thailand aims to complete by 2030 the first phase of its high-speed rail network linking the country to China, as Bangkok and Beijing agreed to deepen cooperation in transport, defence and cross-border security.

The Thai government said the 250km railway connecting Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima is targeted for completion by the end of the decade. Preparations are also underway for the second phase, which will extend the line to Nong Khai on the border with Laos, as reported by RTHK.

The project forms part of China's broader vision to develop a 3,900km rail corridor stretching from Kunming in southwestern China through mainland Southeast Asia to Singapore.

Thailand is also progressing another railway project that will connect its conventional rail network with Laos in the north and Malaysia in the south, strengthening regional connectivity.

The announcements were made following Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's five-day visit to China, during which both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation.

In addition to transport infrastructure, Thailand and China agreed to establish a foreign affairs and defence cooperation mechanism while enhancing collaboration in defence industries and personnel development.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen efforts against transnational crime by sharing intelligence and financial transaction data to combat online scams and fraud.

During talks with Anutin, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said China was prepared to align development strategies with Thailand, expand high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and promote growth in bilateral trade.

Li also called for closer cooperation in emerging industries, law enforcement and security, while expressing hope that Thailand would continue providing a favourable business environment for Chinese companies.

Anutin reaffirmed Thailand's adherence to the one-China policy and pledged to intensify efforts to combat cross-border crime, while ensuring a safe environment for Chinese tourists and businesses operating in the country.

The Thai prime minister also met Zhao Leji, chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, during the visit.