On 12 April 2023, the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC) invited H.E. Arthayudh Srisamoot, Ambassador of Thailand to China, to hold the “Lecture Series on ASEAN-China Relations” at Xinjiang University. H.E. Secretary General Shi Zhongjun of the ACC accompanied the ambassador for the event. Mr. Yao Qiang, President of Xinjiang University, and Mr. Zhang Huazhong, Deputy Director General of the Foreign Affairs Office of Xinjiang Autonomous Region, attended the event. The event was chaired by Mr. Gu Guanghai, Vice President of Xinjiang University, and attended by more than 300 faculty members and students.

President Gu Guanghai warmly welcomed Ambassador Arthayudh Srisamoot and SG Shi Zhongjun. He said that Xinjiang University has positively responded to the Belt and Road Initiative, actively participated in Xinjiang’s efforts to build core educational areas in countries along the Silk Road, and is willing to make new contributions to furthering people-to-people exchanges between China and ASEAN Member States (AMS) including Thailand. 

Secretary General Shi Zhongjun stated that ASEAN-China relations have entered the fast lane, enjoying bright prospects ahead. A productive and mature Thailand-China relationship will give a strong boost to the overall ASEAN-China relations. He hopes the students will actively participate in ASEAN-China friendly exchanges and cooperation, adding fresh impetus into the growth of Thailand-China and ASEAN-China relations. The ACC will remain committed to enhancing people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding of both sides, and further deepening the development of the ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic partnership.

In his speech, Ambassador Arthayudh Srisamoot briefed on the evolution of ASEAN-China relations, the achievements of cooperation by both sides in political and security, economic and trade, socio-cultural and public health areas, and the important role Thailand has played in advancing ASEAN’s development and promoting ASEAN-China relations. He stated that Thailand is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with various localities of China, including Xinjiang, to promote joint development.

Ambassador Arthayudh Srisamoot interacted with the students on strengthening cooperation between Thailand and Xinjiang in areas such as education and tourism. Thai tourism promotional videos were also played on site. In a warm ambience, rounds of applause were given to Ambassador Arthayudh’s splendid lecture.

After the speech, Ambassador Arthayudh presented Thai language books and souvenirs to Xinjiang University. The delegation then visited the university's Antique Literature Museum.

Before the start of the lecture event, President Yao met with Secretary General Shi, Ambassador Arthayudh and the delegation to exchange views on promoting cooperation between Xinjiang University and universities in AMS, including Thailand.

“Lecture Series on ASEAN-China Relations” is ACC’s flagship programme, aiming to promote exchanges and mutual understanding between ASEAN and China.