The third Chinese consulate general in Thailand opened here on Monday, with jurisdiction covering 20 northeastern provinces.

The consulate general in Khon Kaen went into operation as China and Thailand are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties, which fully manifested China's aspiration to promote cordial relations with the northeastern part of the kingdom, Chinese ambassador to Thailand Ning Fukui said at the opening ceremony.

With Khon Kaen being the center of northeastern Thailand, the new consulate general is expected to further facilitate exchanges between the two countries, Khon Kaen Governor Kamthorn Thawornsathit said.

The first two Chinese consulates general in Thailand are located in northern Chiang Mai province and southern Songkhla province, respectively.