US Army chief of staff meets Thai PM

US Army's Chief of staff General James McConville on Friday concluded a two day visit to Thailand with a meeting with country's Prime Minister, Prayuth Chan-ocha, at Government House in Bangkok.

He and his delegation are first official visitors to Thailand since entry rules were eased as part of lifting of coronavirus restrictions.

A statement from US Embassy said two men discussed strategic partnership between countries.

During visit general signed Strategic Vision Statement with head of Thai army, General Apirat Kongsompong, to enhance bilateral armed forces relationship, statement said, which includes modernization and joint training.

visit was falsely branded as controversial on local social media with claims that delegation was allowed to shortcut a required 14-day quarantine for foreign visitors.

Regulations for VIP guests of government include provisions for skipping quarantine at state facilities for short visits by delegations of 10 members or less, and VIPs must still observe or regulations, including holding certificates that y tested negative for coronavirus, have Thai liaison officials accompany m, and keep to a fixed itinerary using only ir own specially arranged transport.

General McConville flies to Japan following two-day visit.