China Offers Platform for Cambodia-Thailand Border Dialogue

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Dec. 25, 2025) — China has offered to provide a platform for dialogue between Cambodia and Thailand to help resolve their escalating border conflict, urging both sides to rebuild trust and restore peace.

From Dec. 18 to 23, Deng Xijun, China’s special envoy for Asian affairs, conducted shuttle diplomacy in both countries. In Phnom Penh, he met Prime Minister Sadmech Thipadei Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Tea Seiha, and Royal Cambodian Army Commander Mao Sophan.

In Bangkok, he held talks with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Defence Minister Gen. Natthaphon Narkphanit, Supreme Commander Gen. Ukrit Boontanon, and Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Eksiri Pintaruchi.

Deng said China is closely monitoring the situation and expressed sorrow over casualties and mass displacement caused by the clashes. Cambodian officials report at least 30 civilians killed, 87 injured and more than 636,000 displaced since fighting reignited on Dec. 7.

He stressed the importance of achieving an immediate ceasefire, resuming dialogue and resolving disputes peacefully. China also reaffirmed support for ASEAN’s mediation efforts and the role of its observer team in monitoring the ceasefire.

Officials from both Cambodia and Thailand thanked China for its efforts, reaffirmed their commitment to peace and expressed hope for a sustainable ceasefire. Both sides pledged to maintain close communication with Beijing to de-escalate tensions and restore stability along the border.