Thailand has raised concerns with China over the recent delivery of tanks to Cambodia, cautioning that this move could destabilize the fragile ceasefire between the neighboring countries. Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul discussed the issue with China’s President Xi Jinping during a meeting last week, as reported by Thailand’s foreign ministry. Officials have expressed that the timing and presentation of the military equipment could complicate the already tense relations between Thailand and Cambodia, despite several ceasefire agreements.
The delivery consisted of 39 Chinese-made T-59D battle tanks, provided to Cambodia under an existing military cooperation agreement. Thai authorities have noted that there is no evidence suggesting that these tanks have been positioned near the shared border. The relationship between Thailand and Cambodia remains strained following violent clashes along their frontier last year, fueled by disputes over land and maritime boundaries linked to colonial-era treaties and maps.
China has defended its actions, stating that its military collaboration with both Thailand and Cambodia is routine and not directed at any third party. Earlier in the year, Beijing also supplied Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette. Despite the tensions, Thai officials have expressed appreciation for China’s neutral stance and its efforts to help ease the situation, while stressing that the resolution of the conflict ultimately depends on direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
Beyond the border issues, Thailand and China have agreed to set up a new dialogue mechanism involving their foreign and defense ministers. This initiative aims to facilitate discussions, with the first round expected to focus on tackling cross-border scam operations. This step indicates a mutual commitment to maintaining open lines of communication and addressing bilateral concerns.