Anutin shared the update on Thailand’s tourism outlook upon his return from China on Saturday night (Nov 1), after attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in South Korea, reports the Bangkok Post.
Speaking at Wing 6 in Bangkok, the prime minister said he had held a bilateral meeting with President Xi, during which he reaffirmed that Thailand had no plan to legalise gambling or casinos.
“President Xi appeared satisfied with the confirmation,” Anutin said.
He added that while Xi noted China could not interfere in Thailand’s internal affairs, the Chinese government could advise its citizens to avoid visiting countries whose policies differ from China’s principles.
“The talks went well and were full of mutual understanding. President Xi appeared more at ease when he learned that the current Thai government has no policy to legalise casinos. This means the Chinese government will support its citizens in visiting Thailand with confidence,” Anutin said.
Early this year, President Xi reportedly warned former Thai prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra against the casino legalisation policy of her government. In mid-year, Ms Paetongtarn said that Chinese tourists were concerned about safety, not the casino policy.
Chinese arrivals in Thailand dropped sharply in the first half of this year to 2.26 million, a 34% year-on-year decline.