China Says It Maintains Neutral Role in Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute

BEIJING (Oct.11,2025) — China on Friday reaffirmed its neutral and constructive role in the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, responding to media reports alleging Beijing had supplied weapons to Cambodia.

At a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun dismissed claims by Western media suggesting China was taking sides in the dispute.

“China conducts normal defense cooperation with all ASEAN countries, including Cambodia and Thailand,” Guo said, calling attempts to use such cooperation to sow discord “unsuccessful.”

Guo said that since the outbreak of the conflict, China has maintained a fair and impartial stance as a friendly neighbor to both countries, while actively promoting peace talks.

He cited a recent informal consultation involving the foreign ministers of China, Cambodia and Thailand in Anning, Yunnan province, and noted that China’s special envoy for Asian affairs had made multiple shuttle diplomacy trips to help mediate the dispute.

“Through the efforts of China, Malaysia and other parties, Cambodia and Thailand reached a ceasefire agreement and continue communicating through bilateral mechanisms,” Guo said, adding that relevant parties have praised China’s “irreplaceable role” in the process.

China supports Cambodia and Thailand in resolving their differences through dialogue and backs Malaysia, the current ASEAN chair, in facilitating a political settlement in line with the ASEAN Way.

“China stands ready, in accordance with the will of Cambodia and Thailand, to continue promoting talks and playing a constructive role in consolidating the ceasefire and advancing a peaceful resolution,” Guo said.