A recent Western media report claimed that China had provided a large quantity of weapon supplies to Cambodia, raising doubts about Beijing’s neutrality in the ongoing border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. The report also misrepresented China’s defense cooperation with the countries involved.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun firmly rejected the allegations, emphasizing that China has maintained a fair and just position since the outbreak of the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict. Guo stated that China, as a friendly neighbor to both nations, has consistently worked to promote dialogue and peaceful resolution between the two sides.
He highlighted that significant progress has been made through China’s diplomatic efforts. The foreign ministers of China, Cambodia, and Thailand previously reached important outcomes during talks in Anning, Yunnan Province. The three countries also held informal consultations, while the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Special Envoy for Asian Affairs made several rounds of shuttle diplomacy aimed at peace negotiations between Phnom Penh and Bangkok.
Guo noted that, thanks to the active involvement of China, Malaysia, and other regional partners, Cambodia and Thailand successfully reached a ceasefire agreement. The two countries are now in communication through bilateral mechanisms. He added that various parties have acknowledged and praised China for playing an irreplaceable role in facilitating this peace process.
China continues to support both Cambodia and Thailand in resolving their disputes through dialogue and consultation. Guo also expressed China’s support for Malaysia, as the current rotating chair of ASEAN, in leading efforts toward a political settlement based on the “ASEAN Way.” He reaffirmed that China remains ready to promote peace talks in accordance with the wishes of both Cambodia and Thailand and to play a constructive role in maintaining and consolidating the ceasefire.
Addressing the accusations regarding weapon supplies, Guo clarified that China conducts normal defense cooperation with all ASEAN countries, including both Cambodia and Thailand. He criticized certain Western media outlets for attempting to distort this cooperation and create misunderstandings between China and regional countries. Such attempts, he said, are destined to fail.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official remarks from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and reflects China’s response to Western media reports concerning alleged weapon supplies to Cambodia.
