BEIJING, April 3 -- China's top political advisor, Yu Zhengsheng, met with visiting Thai crown princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in Beijing on Friday.

Yu welcomed Sirindhorn to visit China on the eve of the 40th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic ties. He voiced appreciation for Sirindhorn's work on strengthening the China-Thailand friendship and her contribution to deepening mutual understanding between the two peoples.

Since the establishment of the new Thai government in August, the development of China-Thailand relations has maintained good momentum, Yu said, highlighting "important progress in cooperation in railways."

The political advisor said the two countries have also conducted effective cooperation in trade, technology, culture and law enforcement.

Sirindhorn said she will exchange views with Chinese parties on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the areas of education, culture and technology.

Sirindhorn is visiting China from Friday to Monday at the invitation of the Chinese government. Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao also met with her later on Friday.