Thailand has voiced its apprehension to China regarding the recent shipment of tanks to Cambodia, fearing that this development could disrupt the delicate ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, which was established after last year’s fatal border conflicts. The matter was brought up by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as reported by Thailand’s foreign ministry. According to officials, the delivery’s timing and manner might complicate the already tense relations between the two neighboring countries, despite their numerous ceasefire accords.
According to Thai authorities, 39 T-59D battle tanks, manufactured in China, were sent to Cambodia as part of an existing military cooperation agreement. They assured that there is no evidence suggesting that these tanks have been stationed near the contentious border. The relationship between Thailand and Cambodia has been fraught with tension since the violent confrontations along their shared boundary last year. These ongoing disputes are deeply rooted in historical agreements and maps from the colonial era, which continue to pose challenges to the negotiation process.
China has consistently stated that its defense partnerships with both nations are standard and not aimed at any third party. Earlier this year, China also supplied Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette. Thai officials have acknowledged China’s impartial position and have welcomed its efforts to mitigate tensions. However, they maintain that the resolution of the conflict ultimately rests on direct negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
Beyond the border dispute discussions, Thailand and China have also agreed to initiate a new dialogue framework that will involve their foreign and defense ministers. The first round of these talks is expected to concentrate on addressing cross-border scam operations. This new mechanism is hoped to bolster communication and cooperation between the two nations in handling mutual concerns.