New Thai PM Srettha Thavisin said that outgoing PM Prayut Chan-o-cha asked him to move past conflicts, so that the country can move forward.

Srettha, who was appointed as the new PM on August 23, held talks with Prayut at Government House today (Thursday). He said that, as the newly appointed prime minister and Prayut’s junior, it was an appropriate gesture to visit him and ask for his opinions.

“During the talks, Prayut asked me to take care of and protect the country and the people, the religion and the monarchy,” Srettha told reporters after returning to Pheu Thai headquarters.

Prayut said this is this is the first time that two premiers have met to exchange ideas about the country prior to the transfer of power.

Srettha quoted Prayut as suggesting that, as he has come from the business world, he may find the administration style different when running a country. “So, he said I should be patient and calm. He asked me to continue his good policies, with which I agreed. If they are suitable, I will continue them,” Srettha said.

The new premier said it was nice of Prayut to give him a guided tour of Government House and the prime minister’s office.

Srettha described Prayut as a respectable senior and nice. The meeting was arranged by the two men’s respective staffs, he added.