China Offers to Mediate Thailand-Cambodia Relations
China's President Xi offered to mediate tensions between Thailand and Cambodia during talks with Thai PM Anutin in Shanghai, while assuring Thailand that Chinese weapons deliveries to Cambodia won't be used against it.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the results of bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Shanghai on July 17, revealing that Xi has offered to facilitate dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia to restore relations. During discussions emphasizing the strong bond between the two countries, China confirmed its commitment to ongoing support and cooperation with Thailand across security, economics, technology transfer, and personnel training.
A key topic addressed regional relationships and security concerns. Xi acknowledged neighboring country relations and offered to mediate efforts to restore Thai-Cambodian ties and find joint solutions. Thailand reiterated its position that it does not seek conflict but must protect sovereignty and public safety.
Anuthin addressed concerns about China's tank deliveries to Cambodia, explaining that China understood Thai government and public worries. He noted the purchase order predated recent conflict, but China had delayed deliveries during the fighting. China assured that under agreed conditions, the weapons will not be used to harm Thailand.
Anuthin also confirmed that China offered to host the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation framework meeting—originally to be co-chaired by Thailand—to avoid inconvenience for participating states, particularly Cambodia. On a ceremonial note, Anutin conveyed a royal invitation from Thailand's King inviting President Xi and his wife on an official State Visit, which Xi accepted in principle pending scheduling alignment.
