Thailand has raised concerns with China over a recent delivery of tanks to Cambodia, wary that this could destabilize the uneasy ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia after last year’s violent border conflicts. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul brought up the issue during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as confirmed by Thailand’s foreign ministry. Officials in Thailand worry that the timing and manner of the military shipment might further complicate the already delicate relations between the two neighboring countries.
The delivery included 39 Chinese-made T-59D battle tanks, provided under an existing military cooperation agreement with Cambodia. Thai authorities emphasized that there was no evidence of these tanks being deployed near the contentious border area. Despite several ceasefire agreements, the relationship remains strained due to unresolved disputes over land and maritime boundaries, issues that trace back to colonial-era treaties and maps.
China has defended its military cooperation with both Thailand and Cambodia, asserting that such activities are routine and not directed against any external parties. Earlier in the year, China also supplied Cambodia with a Type 056 guided-missile corvette, underscoring its ongoing defense support. Thai officials, while appreciating China’s neutral position, have reiterated that the resolution of the border dispute rests on direct bilateral negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia.
In a bid to alleviate tensions and address broader concerns, Thailand and China have agreed to establish a new dialogue mechanism involving their foreign and defense ministers. This initiative aims to address various regional issues, with the inaugural discussions expected to focus on tackling cross-border scam operations. The move signifies a commitment to fostering communication and cooperation amidst the prevailing geopolitical challenges.