In his note, Prayut said he wished to extend his warmest congratulations to Macron on being elected as the president of France.

“Your substantial victory and progressive direction are reflective of how the French people have placed their confidence in you to lead the country forward,” Prayut said.

Thailand and France have enjoyed close and friendly relations for 161 years, Prayut said, adding: “Our longstanding ties have evolved into a Strategic Partnership based on common interests in a number of important areas.”

Prayut was confident that relations between Thailand and France would become stronger under Macron’s leadership. “I look forward to working closely with you to reinforce our mutual beneficial ties for the prosperity of our two countries and peoples,” he said.