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he explained: “They were like hostages from Thailand but were raised like the stepchildren of Grandpa Zhou. Years later, both played an important role in strengthening the relationship between China and Thailand. Our family was honoured to be selected for the national mission.”Joe said that joint investment is an effective way to maintain the close friendship. “Without investment, you might visit China once a year. But once you invest, you have to go at least once a month.” Learning from his mother and uncle, he asserted that it is necessary to have an intermediary who understands the situation on both sides. Important decisions can be made more quickly.HE Guan Mu, former Chinese ambassador to Thailand, quoted Confucius: “‘At 30, I took a stand; At 40, I no longer had doubts...’ Our diplomatic relations have progressed for 40 years, so we should no longer have doubts in each other.” He said there are always rumours that China intends to take advantage of Thailand, for example by sending in 200,000 labourers or offering unreasonably high prices for the rail project, which are “not true at all”.Ambassador Ning added: “The railway price is based on science and ready to be proved by any third partyOur diplomatic relations have progressed for 40 years, so we should no longer have doubts in each otherapproved of by Thailand and China.”The ambassadors concluded that China has goodintentions and sincere friendship for Thailand. “Sincerity is the most important policy,” said former ambassador Guan. “We only offer the best choice for our friend and respect different opinions.”Whether it is the railway project, tourism or bilateral trade, nothing starts off perfect. Improvement and support from the two governments and peoples are needed in order to ensure sustainable benefits.Elite+ 25