Thailand has voiced its apprehensions to China following the latter’s recent delivery of tanks to Cambodia, highlighting potential risks to the delicate ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia after last year’s intense border clashes. The issue was brought to the forefront by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as confirmed by Thailand’s foreign ministry. Officials have indicated that the timing and nature of this military shipment might further complicate the already tense relations between the two neighboring nations, despite multiple ceasefire agreements being in place.
According to Thai authorities, Cambodia received 39 Chinese-manufactured T-59D battle tanks as part of an existing military cooperation agreement. However, it has been noted that there is no evidence of these tanks being stationed near the contentious border area. The tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have persisted since last year’s violent confrontations along their shared frontier, fueled by longstanding disputes over land and maritime boundaries rooted in colonial-era treaties and maps, which continue to obstruct negotiations.
China has defended its defense cooperation with Thailand and Cambodia, stating that it remains normal and is not aimed at any third party. Earlier in the year, China also transferred a Type 056 guided-missile corvette to Cambodia. Thai officials have expressed appreciation for China’s neutral position and its efforts to mitigate tensions, while underscoring the importance of resolving the dispute through direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
In a bid to address broader regional issues, Thailand and China have agreed to establish a new dialogue mechanism, involving their foreign and defense ministers, to discuss and resolve pertinent matters. The inaugural round of these talks is expected to concentrate on tackling cross-border scam operations, reflecting a commitment to collaborative security efforts in the region.