"As an important channel connecting China and ASEAN, Thailand will be a window for ASEAN countries to learn about Chinese language and culture."

Phongthep Thepkanjana, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister, said during an interview with Chinese media in Bangkok on Tuesday. He added that Chinese language learning is getting popular and Chinese culture is well accepted in his country. About half of the Thai population are of Chinese descent and about 3 million Chinese tourists travel to Thailand every year.