China expects continuity in Thai ties

BEIJING - China hopes that communication and cooperation with Thailand will continue despite changes of the political situation, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Qin Gang said Monday.

Qin told a daily press briefing that the Chinese embassy in Thailand has been operating as usual and performing its due duties, but he declined to offer any details about the contact between China and Thailand.

"We are watching the situation closely," Qin said.

He said as a friendly neighbor of Thailand, China hopes that all parties will show restraint and resolving issues through dialogue and consultation.

The Thai military on Thursday seized control of the country following months of unrest and widespread protests in capital city Bangkok and other parts of the nation.

The military announced on Saturday that it had detained ousted Thai premier Yingluck Shinawatra, former cabinet ministers and protest leaders.

Thai Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha on Monday promised to appoint an interim Prime Minister and set up cabinet, but did not give any timeframe.