Chinese tourists from Shanghai landed in Bangkok on Monday under a new visa-free scheme, with no less than the prime minister welcoming the visitors who are expected to boost tourism revenues of the kingdom.

Traditional dancers accompanied a smiling Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin as he greeted visitors and handed them gifts at the Suvarnabhumi airport.

Honeymooners Jin Li and her husband, who had their photo taken with Srettha, told Agence France-Presse the visa-free scheme was great because they can go on a trip at any time just by booking a flight ticket.

Thailand's visa-free scheme was launched in time for China's "Golden Week" holiday period in October, and runs until 29 February.

Srettha said that under the scheme bookings had already increased "tenfold" and that he was confident it would "significantly stimulate the economy."

Chinese visitors also were greeted by tourism police officers and informed of the details of a 24-hour police hotline.

Srettha has sought to reassure visitors about their safety before, emphasising that visitor security in the kingdom is a priority.

"The safety of tourists from their first step in Thailand to their departure when they leave must be safe and spectacular from all sides," he said.

WITH AFP