China has called for an early ceasefire and renewed dialogue to resolve the ongoing border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand, reaffirming its support for ASEAN-led mediation efforts, according to a statement shared by Chinese ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin on social media.
Quoting Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Special Envoy for Asian Affairs Deng Xijun, the post said the immediate priority is “to achieve a ceasefire at an early date, restart dialogue and resolve the border dispute through peaceful means”.
Deng made the remarks during a shuttle-diplomacy visit to Cambodia and Thailand aimed at easing tensions following the recent border conflict.
China expressed support for ASEAN’s mediation role, including the work of its observer team in monitoring any ceasefire.
Deng said Beijing is prepared to “create conditions and provide a platform for dialogue and negotiations between the two parties”, underscoring China’s willingness to facilitate talks if requested.
The Chinese envoy also urged both sides to compromise and rebuild trust. “It is hoped that Cambodia and Thailand will meet each other halfway, strive to restore mutual trust, and rebuild border peace,” he said.
On December 23, Deng wrapped up a six-day shuttle diplomacy mission to Cambodia and Thailand, reiterating Beijing’s readiness to help facilitate dialogue and negotiations between the two neighbouring countries, according to a report by China Daily.
The trip underscored China’s latest diplomatic push to help defuse the escalating border tensions between the two Southeast Asian nations following a renewed outbreak of clashes in early December.
It said as part of these efforts, Foreign Minister Wang Yi last week held separate telephone discussions with his Cambodian and Thai counterparts to encourage de-escalation and a peaceful resolution.
The call for de-escalation has also drawn international concern.
French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot said the conflict has already displaced nearly one million people, warning of its growing humanitarian impact.
“I have called my Cambodian and Thai counterparts to encourage an immediate ceasefire,” Barrot said, stressing that “a just and lasting peace can only be achieved through negotiation”.
