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Thai leader Thanom Kittikachorn arrives for four-day visit

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Prime Ministers Il Kwan Chung of South Korea and Thanom Kittikachorn of Thailand ride away from Kimpo International Airport.
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Photographers rush in to record the scene as Thanom Kittikachorn is welcomed at Seoul's City Hall.

SEOUL — Thai Prime Minister Thanom Kittikachorn Sunday spent his first day in Korea visiting the Royal Thai Army company stationed near the Demilitarized Zone and attending a citizen's welcoming rally in Seoul.

Arriving at Kimpo International Airport for a four-day official visit, Thanom said the progress and stability in the Republic of Korea has contributed to better international relations.

He said Republic of Korea has accomplished remarkable progress since the Korean War when Thailand sent its combat troops to aid Korea.

Visiting Korea for the first time in 13 years, the former member of the United Nations Command component of Military Armistice Commission said the two countries still firmly believe in the common ideals of peace, freedom and justice in this part of the world.

Accompanied by 25 official and unofficial members, Thanom flew to the Thai company on UNC helicopters and was welcomed by the company commander and the troops. An honor ceremony was held for their prime minister and defense minister.

Thanom is also Thai field marshal, admiral of the Fleet and marshal of the Air Force.

Monday, Thanom was to begin a busy official schedule with a visit to the national cemetery, followed by talks with Korean Prime Minister Il Kwon Chung, courtesy call on speaker of the national assembly Hyo Sang Rhee, and a tour of the exhibition hall of the second 5-year economic plan.