New Delhi, Feb 28 (IANS): Thailand Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Friday called on President Pranab Mukherjee at Rashtrapati Bhawan here.

Welcoming the princess, Mukherjee described her as a close and special friend of India.

"Through scholarly pursuit of Sanskrit and Pali and deep understanding of Indian culture, the princess has enriched knowledge of each other and cemented the bonds of friendship between India and Thailand", he said.

He thanked her for her keen interest and tireless efforts in creating a better understanding and awareness of the shared history of the two countries.

The president said India has deep historical and cultural links with Thailand and attaches high priority to bilateral relations. Thailand is a close friend and a valued regional partner, he added.

"India is keen that bilateral relations between the two countries continue to move forward with substantive contemporary content," said Mukherjee, adding that India welcomes more exchanges between academicians, scientists, artists, intellectuals and students of the two countries.

On the occasion, the president also said that the establishment of Nalanda University is an example of possibilities for regional cooperation and India appreciated Thailand's ongoing support to the project. India looks at Buddhism as a common heritage of Thailand and other countries in the region.