China Welcomes Cambodia–Thailand Border Ceasefire Progress via ‘Asean Way’

KUALA LUMPUR: China has praised the progress made by Cambodia and Thailand in implementing ceasefire arrangements along their shared border, reaffirming its support for resolving disputes through the principles of the “ASEAN Way.”

In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said the recent developments prove that dialogue and consultation remain the most effective means to address disputes.

“China upholds a just and fair position, supports Cambodia and Thailand in enhancing communication and resolving differences, and backs advancing political settlements through the ASEAN Way,” the ministry said, responding to the outcomes of the Extraordinary Meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC).

The meeting, held in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 7, resulted in both nations reaching consensus on a ceasefire monitoring mechanism and follow-up arrangements. It was co-chaired by Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and National Defence Minister General Tea Seiha and Thailand’s Acting Defence Minister General Nattaphon Narkphanit.

Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, and Chief of Defence Force General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar attended the session as observers. Also present were China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, and US Ambassador to Malaysia, Edgard D. Kagan.

According to China’s statement, the meeting laid the groundwork for a sustainable ceasefire and long-term peace between the two countries. Beijing reiterated its readiness to play a constructive role in supporting peaceful resolutions to the border dispute.