PHUKET: China has reminded Thailand of the importance of tourists' safety as it promotes the kingdom as a destination for Chinese travellers.
The Chinese consul general in Songkhla, Ma Fengchun, said the issue of safety for Chinese tourists taking holidays in Thailand is key to the Chinese government.
"The Chinese government has placed the utmost importance on the safety of tourists from China," Mr Ma said after talks with Phuket governor Pakkapong Tawipat.
The Chinese diplomat is on a trip to Phuket, Krabi and Phangnga to foster closer relations in the field of tourism in the wake of a boat tragedy in July 2018 when 47 Chinese tourists died off the coast of Phuket.
This caused a temporary slump in Chinese tourists.
Some 10.5 million Chinese tourists visited Thailand last year, dwarfing arrivals from other countries.
The Association of Thai Travel Agents expects the number to surpass 11 million this year.
