Photo courtesy of Khaosod

 

China's new Ambassador to Thailand, Zhang Jianwei, held his inaugural media session with Thai journalists on September 11, addressing concerns about Chinese influence and tourist safety. Zhang, appointed as the 14th Ambassador on July 29, aimed to ease tensions amid rising social media discussions over safety and economic issues impacting bilateral ties. The meeting took place at the Chinese Embassy, focusing on resolving sensitive topics that have affected perceptions between the two nations.

 

The ambassador tackled the negative perception among some Chinese citizens about Thailand's safety, which has deterred tourists. Despite Thailand’s visa-free policy for Chinese visitors, fears have persisted. “When I was preparing to come to Thailand, friends asked if it would be safe here. But after arriving, I found their concerns were completely unfounded,” Zhang stated, attributing these concerns to skewed reports, particularly involving Chinese actor Wang Xing's experience with a scam network.

 

Zhang addressed issues regarding some Chinese businesses engaging in unethical practices in Thailand, known locally as “Gray Chinese.” He assured that these cases are minimal and emphasized the embassy's ongoing efforts to remind Chinese enterprises to respect local laws. “Most Chinese investors come with friendly intentions to benefit local communities,” Zhang said, highlighting a collaborative business approach.

 

Social media debates suggesting Thailand might become “China’s Taiguo Province” were firmly rejected by Zhang. He emphasized that the notion is historically baseless and underscored the longstanding mutually beneficial relationship between the countries. He reassured that China’s policy is rooted in promoting peace and equality without engaging in conflicts.

 

Zhang urged Thai media to provide accurate and comprehensive reports about China. He described minor disputes as family spats rather than significant diplomatic issues, advocating for stronger media cooperation. The ambassador's outreach coincides with the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand, set to be celebrated in 2025.

 

A significant royal visit is planned, with His Majesty the King of Thailand and Her Majesty the Queen visiting China in December. Zhang expressed gratitude for the enduring friendship between the nations and conveyed confidence in continued collaboration.

 

Key Takeaways

• Safety concerns among Chinese tourists are unfounded, says Ambassador.
• “Gray Chinese” practices are isolated, most investors are law-abiding.
• Thailand and China maintain historically mutually beneficial relations.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-09-15

 

 

17 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

“Most Chinese investors come with friendly intentions to benefit local communities,”

Only a fool would think that is true. 

On 9/15/2025 at 12:30 PM, snoop1130 said:

engaging in unethical practices in Thailand, known locally as “Gray Chinese.” He assured that these cases are minimal and emphasized the embassy's ongoing efforts to remind Chinese enterprises to respect local laws.

 

Lol. do you believe this??