Credited from: SCMP
China has expressed strong support for Thailand and Cambodia in their efforts to resolve ongoing border disputes, calling for enhanced dialogue and cooperation. During the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in China's Yunnan province, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi indicated that China is prepared to assist both nations based on their needs. He emphasized the importance of rebuilding mutual trust and restoring friendship through communication, echoing sentiments from separate statements made by authoritative sources from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, which highlighted concerns over recent violent skirmishes related to the border dispute, particularly after the killing of a Cambodian soldier in May, and subsequent clashes in late July, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.
At the meeting, Wang expressed China's desire to facilitate a reopening of border crossings as a means to meet mutual needs. He underlined the importance of "friendly and candid" communication to dispel misunderstandings and promote peaceful relations, noting that both nations show reluctance for continued conflict. Furthermore, he reiterated China's willingness to assist with landmine clearance efforts in the contested areas, which are critical for restoring stability in the region. The ministers agreed on the necessity of continued dialogue to address mutual concerns, as indicated by reports from South China Morning Post and Reuters.
Recent border tensions have escalated to alarming levels, with at least 43 fatalities and over 300,000 individuals displaced during five days of fierce fighting. A ceasefire agreement was established last month following significant international pressure, including from the United States. The Thai Foreign Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, acknowledged China's constructive role in fostering relations and expressed urgency in addressing border demining as a pivotal step toward reducing tensions, reflecting the collaborative spirit advocated by Wang, as mentioned in the discussions reported by South China Morning Post and Channel News Asia.