Thailand has voiced its unease to China regarding the recent shipment of tanks to Cambodia, cautioning that this development could jeopardize the delicate ceasefire established between the two neighboring countries. The ceasefire followed deadly clashes along their border last year. The matter was brought up by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as confirmed by Thailand’s foreign ministry. Concerns arise from the timing and manner of the military delivery, which could potentially complicate the already tense relations between Thailand and Cambodia, despite several ceasefire attempts.
According to Thai officials, Cambodia has received 39 T-59D battle tanks from China as part of an ongoing military cooperation agreement. However, there is no indication that these military assets have been stationed near the contentious border. Relations between Thailand and Cambodia remain fraught due to disputes over land and maritime boundaries, issues that stem from colonial-era treaties and maps, which continue to impede diplomatic negotiations.
China, on its part, asserts that its military collaboration with both Thailand and Cambodia is routine and not directed at any third party. Earlier this year, China also provided Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette, further cementing its defense ties with the country. Despite the tensions, Thai officials have expressed appreciation for China’s neutral position and its efforts to help alleviate the situation, while also emphasizing the need for direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia to resolve the disputes.
In a move to enhance dialogue, Thailand and China have agreed to initiate a new communication channel involving their foreign and defense ministers. This new dialogue mechanism is expected to hold its first round of discussions focused on addressing cross-border scam activities. Such collaborative efforts are part of broader attempts to stabilize relations and address issues that extend beyond the immediate military concerns.