Thailand was not one of the first to recognise the People's Republic of China - over 100 countries were ahead of us - but the recognition was a major breakthrough that marked the end of a very difficult period.
The Indochina war, cold war and concerns over the diffusion of Communism had kindled multifaceted tensions. Thailand had rebuffed Chinese overtures of friendship.
Finally in 1973, the ice was broken by a visit of the Chinese table tennis team. This was warmly welcomed by Thais, especially Chinese descendants. The friendliness and cordiality of the Chinese guests helped to allay concerns on our side.
Diplomatic relations
Thailand also had a change of government and in March 1974, the new prime minister, MR Kukrit Pramoj, proposed to the House of Representatives that Thailand open diplomatic ties with China to "balance superpower influences".
This was accepted and the joint declaration of recognition was signed on July 1, 1975 by Kukrit and Chinese premier Zhou Enlai.
The establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975 was greatly welcomed by both sides. Indeed it was as if a breach in family relations had finally been mended because of the close kinship between the Chinese and Thai peoples.
The earliest settlers in this country were mainly of Chinese origin. Merchants from the mainland have been trading at Thai coasts for centuries, exchanging their goods for Thai commodities such as rice, timber and spices.
Chinese merchants played a major role in forming marketplaces and commercial centres in places in Ayutthaya, Bangkok and other provinces.
Chinese craftsmen passed on their skills such as boatbuilding, |silk-making and porcelain-making. Chinese artisans helped Thais |decorate their palaces and |temples.
Over the centuries millions of Chinese made their home in Thailand and today many Thais are of Chinese ancestry.
Thanks to these bonds of blood and culture, the association between the two countries is described as "zhong tai yi jia xin" - China and Thailand are like one family.
Expanded links
Since the start of diplomatic relations, family and business |links have been expanded to |the government level. There have been many trade and cooperation agreements and diplomatic exchanges.
In times of difficulty, we have often extended each other a helping hand.
China supported Thailand during the financial crisis of 1997-98 with financial aid while Thailand mediated to smooth China's interactions with Asean, which were tense due to territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
We now stand on the eve of the Asean Economic Community. China is Asean's biggest trading partner, a major investor in the region and a force behind the construction of a vast transport network connecting countries, opening up markets and driving the development of emerging economies.
This presents an important opportunity for Thailand, which will be reflected in the 40th anniversary celebrations.