Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has felicitated the newly appointed Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, and hoped the ties between the two countries will further strengthen in the years ahead. In a message issued here on Saturday Gilani said, "I wish to extend heartiest felicitations on behalf of the people of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, on your appointment as the Prime Minister of Kingdom of Thailand".