Thailand has voiced its unease to China regarding the recent delivery of military tanks to Cambodia, expressing concerns that this could jeopardize the delicate ceasefire between the two neighboring countries. This apprehension stems from last year’s violent clashes at their shared border, which have left relations tense. During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the issue, as confirmed by Thailand’s foreign ministry. Officials highlighted that the timing and nature of the military shipment could potentially complicate the already fragile relations with Cambodia despite efforts to maintain peace through multiple ceasefire agreements.
The tanks in question are 39 Chinese-made T-59D battle tanks, delivered to Cambodia as part of an existing military cooperation agreement with China. Thai authorities have assured that there is no evidence to suggest these tanks have been positioned near the border. Nonetheless, the delivery has stirred concerns, given the ongoing disputes over land and maritime boundaries between Thailand and Cambodia. These disputes are rooted in colonial-era treaties and maps, which continue to pose challenges to negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict.
China, on its part, has asserted that its defense cooperation with both Thailand and Cambodia is routine and does not aim at any third party. Earlier this year, China also provided Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette, further demonstrating its defense ties with the Southeast Asian nation. Despite these developments, Thai officials have expressed appreciation for China’s neutral stance and its efforts to mediate tensions. However, they have emphasized the need for Thailand and Cambodia to engage in direct talks to ultimately resolve their disputes.
In addition to addressing the concerns over the border, Thailand and China have agreed to initiate a new dialogue mechanism involving the foreign and defense ministers of both countries. The first round of talks within this framework is expected to focus on tackling issues such as cross-border scam operations. This collaborative approach signals an intention to strengthen bilateral relations and address mutual concerns beyond the immediate border tensions.