Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reportedly spoken with Cambodian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn and his Thai counterpart Sihasak Phuangketkeow, with both sides willing to de-escalate the ongoing conflict.
Guo Jiakun, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, announced tonight, December 18, via social media, that both the Cambodian and Thai sides had expressed their willingness to de-escalate tensions and implement a ceasefire.
“China has consistently advocated for peaceful dialogue and maintained a fair and impartial stance, while supporting ASEAN’s mediation efforts,” said Guo Jiakun, quoting Wang Yi.
“A Special Envoy for Asian Affairs from China’s Foreign Ministry has been dispatched to Cambodia and Thailand for shuttle diplomacy. China will continue to serve as a bridge and make constructive efforts to facilitate the restoration of peace between the two countries,” Guo added.
US president Donald Trump brokered an earlier ceasefire in July, with China participating as an observer, and again in October, but the ceasefire was breached when Thailand launched fresh assaults on December 7.
Trump has continually threated to use trade pressure to force both countries to return to the October peace deal, seemingly to little effect, as Thai attacks continue.
China has broken its silence regarding the current border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. Supplied
