UPDATE: Foreign ministers from Cambodia and Thailand met with their Chinese counterpart on September 25, 2023, as China steps up its role in mediating a critical ceasefire amid escalating violence on their shared border. This urgent meeting took place in Yunnan Province, just two days after the two countries signed a new ceasefire agreement aimed at halting weeks of deadly clashes that have resulted in over 100 casualties and forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized the importance of maintaining a sustained ceasefire and rebuilding trust between the nations. “We haven’t resolved everything, but I think we are making progress in the right direction and we have to keep up the momentum,” he stated to reporters after the trilateral talks.
The meeting marked a significant shift in diplomatic dynamics, as it was held closer to the border dispute rather than in Beijing, showcasing China’s growing influence as a mediator in regional conflicts. As China enhances its global diplomatic presence, it is increasingly positioning itself as a key player in resolving tensions in Southeast Asia.
During the discussions, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for joint efforts to foster peace and stability, urging both countries to avoid rekindling the flames of war. “Allowing the flames of war to be reignited is absolutely not what the people of the two countries want and not what China, as your friend, wants to see,” Wang said, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
This trilateral meeting comes on the heels of heightened violence, with the ceasefire agreement signed earlier in the week failing to quell ongoing tensions. The humanitarian impact has been severe, affecting countless civilians caught in the crossfire, underscoring the immediate need for a durable peace.
As the situation develops, observers will be watching closely for further actions from all three nations. The next steps will be crucial in determining whether peace can be sustained in the region.
This gathering is a clear indication of China’s aim to solidify its role as a mediator in Asia, as it seeks to stabilize relations between its neighboring countries. As the international community looks on, the urgency of these discussions cannot be overstated.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
