China Urges Thailand and Cambodia to Resume Ceasefire and Peace Talks

Post by : Saif Nasser

China has called on Thailand and Cambodia to immediately agree to a ceasefire and resume dialogue to peacefully resolve their ongoing border dispute. The Chinese Special Envoy for Asian Affairs, Deng Xijun, emphasized that ending the fighting should be the top priority for both nations.

For the past three weeks, Thailand and Cambodia have exchanged rockets and artillery along their 817-kilometer border. The conflict resumed after a truce, initially brokered by Malaysia as ASEAN chair and former U.S. President Donald Trump, collapsed. Thousands of people have been displaced, and local communities are struggling to access basic food and shelter due to the fighting.

China has joined other ASEAN diplomats in urging restraint and calling for immediate steps to halt hostilities. Deng Xijun traveled to both countries to meet with prime ministers and senior officials as part of China’s shuttle diplomacy. He expressed Beijing’s willingness to provide a platform for dialogue and support the mediation process.

Thailand and Cambodia have now agreed to hold a meeting of defense officials on Wednesday to discuss resuming the ceasefire. This move has been welcomed by ASEAN, which continues to support peaceful solutions to regional conflicts.

China describes itself as a “friend” and “close neighbor” to both countries and aims to mediate in a balanced and constructive way. Chinese state media highlighted China’s previous successful mediation efforts, including its role in helping Iran and Saudi Arabia reconcile last year. Beijing’s approach is intended to de-escalate tensions and provide a stable environment for negotiation.

The Chinese government said it supports ASEAN’s efforts and is ready to assist in creating the conditions for peace. By promoting dialogue without directly referring to the earlier Trump-mediated deal, China seeks to maintain its credibility and neutrality as a mediator.

The Thailand-Cambodia border conflict reflects deeper historical and territorial sensitivities in the region. Experts say that careful diplomacy and sustained dialogue are critical to prevent further violence and to protect civilians affected by the clashes.

China’s active role in encouraging ceasefire talks demonstrates its interest in regional stability and its willingness to contribute to peaceful conflict resolution. Both Thailand and Cambodia now face an opportunity to end weeks of violence and work toward a long-term solution to their border issues.