BEIJING, July 26 – The recent outbreak of conflict along the Cambodia-Thailand border, resulting in casualties, is deeply distressing and concerning. The root of this issue lies in the legacy left by Western colonial powers, and it now requires calm and careful handling, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi while meeting with Secretary-General of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Kao Kim Hourn in Beijing on Friday.
China appreciates and supports the active mediation efforts by the ASEAN chair, and encourages dialogue and political resolution through the “ASEAN way,” said Wang.
Wang said that as a mutual neighbour and friend to both Cambodia and Thailand, China is committed to maintaining an objective and impartial stance, and stands ready to play a constructive role in helping de-escalate tensions and stabilizing the situation, according to a release from China’s Foreign Ministry.
Kao Kim Hourn said that on the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict, we believe the leaders of the countries involved have the political wisdom to resolve the issue. The “ASEAN way” remains a viable approach, and the ASEAN chair is actively mediating in the spirit of the ASEAN Charter, according to the release.
We also appreciate China’s constructive efforts in promoting dialogue and de-escalation, said Kao.
Clashes along the Thailand-Cambodia border reportedly continued on Friday, causing casualties on both sides and sparking worries, with regional countries and the international community calling for a ceasefire and de-escalation, according to multiple media outlets.
Thailand’s military-run Channel 5 reported on Friday that clashes broke out at several areas along the Thailand-Cambodia border in the early hours of the day, saying Cambodian forces have conducted sustained bombardment utilizing heavy weapons, field artillery, and BM-21 rocket systems, according to the Xinhua News Agency.
