Cambodian Analysts Praise China’s Quiet Diplomacy in Border Dispute With Thailand

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept. 4, 2025) — Cambodian analysts say China’s firm yet restrained stance on the Cambodia–Thailand border conflict reflects a responsible and regionally aligned approach, reinforcing ASEAN’s central role in conflict resolution.

China remained publicly neutral after clashes erupted on July 24, but later co-hosted the ceasefire agreement signed on July 28 in Malaysia. Chinese President Xi Jinping voiced support for the truce, the ASEAN-led observation mechanism coordinated by Malaysia, and the early deployment of the ASEAN Observer Team. He also pledged humanitarian aid to Cambodia for post-conflict recovery.

Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Cambodia, emphasizing that the partnership should yield tangible benefits while contributing to regional peace and development.

Cheang Vannarith, founder and chairman of the Angkor Social Innovation Park, said China’s support for Cambodia has been consistent and strategic. “Sometimes openly, most of the time quietly,” he said. “It’s the right approach to empower ASEAN in mediating the conflict. Strengthening ASEAN centrality and agency is crucial.”

Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin posted on Facebook that China was the first and largest provider of assistance to Cambodia following the border clashes. “China has been and always will be a reliable partner of Cambodia,” he wrote.

Thong Mengdavid, a lecturer at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said China’s diplomatic efforts—though understated—have helped ease tensions. “China has always supported Cambodia’s pursuit of peaceful settlement through bilateral and international mechanisms,” he said.

Mengdavid added that China’s endorsement of the Malaysia-facilitated ceasefire reflects its interest in regional stability. “If the conflict continues too long, it could disrupt trade flows and regional supply chains,” he warned.

The ceasefire agreement came one day after U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning to both sides, threatening to suspend tariff talks if violence persisted.