China offers to mediate Cambodia–Thailand border dispute

China has called on Cambodia and Thailand to resolve their recent border tensions through peaceful dialogue and pledged to play a constructive role in maintaining stability between the two Southeast Asian neighbours.

“China is willing to uphold an objective and fair position and play a constructive role for the harmonious coexistence between Thailand and Cambodia,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a meeting with his Thai counterpart Maris Sangiampongsa on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Malaysia, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Tensions have escalated since late May when a Cambodian soldier was killed during a brief exchange of gunfire in a disputed section of the 820-kilometre (510-mile) border. Cambodia has since requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to intervene and settle the dispute.

In a separate meeting with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Wang reiterated China’s neutral stance on the border issue. The Chinese foreign ministry noted that Wang “reiterated China’s impartiality on the border issue” during the discussions.

The Chinese diplomat also stressed the need for stronger cross-border security measures to combat illegal activities affecting both Chinese and Cambodian citizens. He called for firm action to “completely eradicate the tumour” of transnational crimes including online gambling, wire fraud, counterfeiting, and smuggling.

Addressing broader regional concerns, Wang also commented on the impact of global trade tensions, particularly with the United States. Referring to recent U.S. tariffs, he said that China believed Southeast Asia had the capacity to navigate the “complex situation” and safeguard both common and national interests.

By Vugar Khalilov