Premier Li Keqiang sent a congratulatory letter on Thursday about starting construction of the first section of the China-Thailand Railway.

Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha delivered a speech when attending a ceremony marking the start of the construction.

The railway is a flagship project for both countries to work on under the Belt and Road Initiative and production capacity cooperation, demonstrating the spirit of negotiation and building together as well as sharing for win-win outcomes, Li said in the letter. The line will effectively improve the infrastructure and connectivity in Thailand and the region, promoting the country’s sustainable economic development and regional development and prosperity, he said.

Both countries are expected to complete the first section and move forward work related to the second section by keeping close exchanges, linking with the China-Laos Railway as soon as possible, Li said.

The premier said China, as friendly neighbor of Thailand, has attached great importance to bilateral relations. China would like to work with Thailand in alliance with each other's development strategies and promote mutually beneficial cooperation, taking the rail line as a new chance to move the comprehensive strategic partnership forward, he added.