Thailand has voiced its concerns to China regarding the recent delivery of tanks to Cambodia, a move that could potentially destabilize the already fragile ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. The warning was issued by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as reported by Thailand’s foreign ministry. The timing and display of this military shipment are viewed as complicating the delicate relations between the two neighboring countries, which have been tense despite several ceasefire agreements.
According to Thai authorities, Cambodia received 39 Chinese-made T-59D battle tanks as part of an existing military cooperation agreement. While there are no signs that these tanks have been positioned near the Thai-Cambodian border, the delivery has raised concerns. The relations between Thailand and Cambodia have been strained since violent confrontations erupted along their shared border last year, rooted in longstanding disputes over land and maritime boundaries traced back to colonial-era treaties and maps.
China has stated that its defense collaborations with both Thailand and Cambodia are standard practice and not aimed at any third party. Earlier this year, China also provided Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette. Despite the situation, Thai officials have expressed appreciation for China’s neutral position and its efforts to help ease tensions. However, they emphasize that resolving the dispute will ultimately require direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
In a broader diplomatic effort, Thailand and China have agreed to establish a new dialogue mechanism that will involve their foreign and defense ministers. The initial round of talks is expected to focus on addressing cross-border scam operations, marking a step towards strengthening cooperative ties and addressing mutual concerns.