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Anning, Yunnan Province — August 18, 2025 — The People’s Republic of China has called on Cambodia and Thailand to strengthen diplomatic dialogue and rebuild mutual trust following recent deadly border clashes, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and cooperation.
During a trilateral meeting held Thursday in Anning, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. The gathering, held on the sidelines of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, focused on de-escalating tensions and promoting peaceful resolution of disputes.
⚔️ Background to the Conflict
The border clashes, which erupted last month, stem from a long-standing territorial dispute surrounding the 11th-century Preah Vihear temple. Although the International Court of Justice affirmed the temple as Cambodian territory in rulings issued in 1962 and again in 2013, tensions have persisted.
Recent incidents include the fatal shooting of a Cambodian soldier in May and a July landmine explosion that killed five Thai soldiers. The five-day conflict displaced thousands and resulted in at least 35 confirmed deaths.
🤝 Ceasefire and International Response
On August 7, Cambodia and Thailand reached a ceasefire agreement during an extraordinary border committee meeting. The accord includes a monitoring mechanism and follow-up arrangements aimed at preventing further escalation.
The ceasefire has drawn international attention. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk welcomed the agreement on July 31, urging both governments to ensure accountability for victims, safeguard civilians, and avoid inflammatory rhetoric. Türk emphasized that each nation bears responsibility for the safety of the other’s nationals within its borders.
🕊️ China’s Role in Mediation
Foreign Minister Wang Yi described the Anning talks as an opportunity to resolve historical grievances rather than exacerbate them. He voiced support for the full implementation of the ceasefire and encouraged the resumption of bilateral exchanges and cooperation.
China also offered practical assistance, including reopening border crossings, supporting demining operations, and facilitating dialogue through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) framework.
Both Cambodian and Thai officials expressed appreciation for China’s role in facilitating the discussions. Sokhonn and Maris reaffirmed their commitment to peace and emphasized the importance of continued dialogue in addressing unresolved issues.
His Excellency Mr. Xi Jinping, President of China Picture by UN Climatechange Team
Excerpts from jurist.com article by Kareem Assaf | Nottingham Law School, GB
