China Offers Mediation in Thailand-Cambodia Border Dispute
Beijing proposes neutral role as tensions escalate following fatal border clash and Cambodia's appeal to International Court of Justice
On 10 July 2025, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi offered China's assistance in mediating the ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.
During separate meetings with Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, Wang emphasized China's commitment to an "objective and fair" stance, proposing to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue between the two Southeast Asian nations.
The dispute intensified after a fatal incident on 28 May 2025, when a Cambodian soldier was killed during a brief exchange of gunfire in the contested Emerald Triangle region, where the borders of Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos converge.
Both countries have since increased military presence along their eight hundred twenty-kilometer shared border, leading to heightened tensions and economic repercussions, including trade restrictions and border closures.
In response to the incident, Cambodia formally submitted a request to the International Court of Justice on 15 June 2025, seeking a legal resolution over four disputed areas: Ta Muen Thom, Ta Muen Toch, Ta Krabey, and the Emerald Triangle.
Thailand has expressed a preference for resolving the matter through bilateral negotiations and does not recognize the court’s jurisdiction in this context.
China's involvement comes amid broader regional concerns.
Wang Yi also addressed issues of cross-border crimes such as online gambling, fraud, and smuggling, calling for enhanced security cooperation.
Additionally, he commented on recent United States tariffs imposed on Southeast Asian countries, expressing confidence in the region's ability to navigate global economic challenges and safeguard common interests.
The ASEAN summit continues as member states seek to address multiple regional issues, including the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute, economic integration, and security cooperation.
During separate meetings with Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, Wang emphasized China's commitment to an "objective and fair" stance, proposing to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue between the two Southeast Asian nations.
The dispute intensified after a fatal incident on 28 May 2025, when a Cambodian soldier was killed during a brief exchange of gunfire in the contested Emerald Triangle region, where the borders of Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos converge.
Both countries have since increased military presence along their eight hundred twenty-kilometer shared border, leading to heightened tensions and economic repercussions, including trade restrictions and border closures.
In response to the incident, Cambodia formally submitted a request to the International Court of Justice on 15 June 2025, seeking a legal resolution over four disputed areas: Ta Muen Thom, Ta Muen Toch, Ta Krabey, and the Emerald Triangle.
Thailand has expressed a preference for resolving the matter through bilateral negotiations and does not recognize the court’s jurisdiction in this context.
China's involvement comes amid broader regional concerns.
Wang Yi also addressed issues of cross-border crimes such as online gambling, fraud, and smuggling, calling for enhanced security cooperation.
Additionally, he commented on recent United States tariffs imposed on Southeast Asian countries, expressing confidence in the region's ability to navigate global economic challenges and safeguard common interests.
The ASEAN summit continues as member states seek to address multiple regional issues, including the Thailand-Cambodia border dispute, economic integration, and security cooperation.
