Thailand has voiced its concerns to China over a recent delivery of tanks to Cambodia, cautioning that this could disrupt the delicate ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. This warning follows the violent border clashes that occurred last year between the two nations. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a recent meeting, as confirmed by Thailand’s foreign ministry. Thai officials noted that the timing and nature of the military shipment could complicate the already tense relations between the neighboring countries despite several ceasefire agreements.
The delivery consisted of 39 Chinese-made T-59D battle tanks sent to Cambodia as part of an ongoing military cooperation agreement. Thai authorities have stated that there is no evidence suggesting these tanks have been stationed near the border. The relationship between Thailand and Cambodia remains strained due to disputes over land and maritime boundaries, which are rooted in colonial-era treaties and maps and continue to impede negotiation efforts.
China has insisted that its defense cooperation with both Thailand and Cambodia is standard practice and is not intended to target any third party. Earlier this year, China also provided Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette. Thai officials have expressed their appreciation for China’s neutral position and its efforts to mitigate regional tensions, while emphasizing that the resolution of the dispute ultimately lies in direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
Beyond the border issues, Thailand and China have agreed to set up a new dialogue mechanism that will involve their foreign and defense ministers. The first round of these talks is expected to address the issue of combating cross-border scam operations, marking a step towards broader cooperation despite existing tensions.
