China has urged Cambodia and Thailand to resolve their border dispute through friendly dialogue, offering to play a constructive role in the process while maintaining an objective and fair position. This was reported by the “Reuters“ agency, News.bg reports.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for peaceful coexistence between the two neighboring countries during a meeting with his Thai counterpart Maris Sanggiampongsa on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Malaysia. He stressed that Beijing is ready to help achieve harmonious relations between Thailand and Cambodia.
Tensions between the two countries have increased after a Cambodian soldier was killed in a brief shootout in a disputed area along the 820-kilometer common border. In June, Cambodia filed a lawsuit with the International Court of Justice, asking it to rule on the dispute with Thailand.
Wang Yi reaffirmed China's neutral position during a meeting with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhon. The Chinese diplomat emphasized the need for enhanced security measures and protection of citizens of both countries. He called for firm action against cross-border crimes, including online gambling, bank fraud, counterfeiting and smuggling.
In conclusion, Wang Yi expressed confidence that Southeast Asia has the capacity to deal with the complex situation and protect both regional and national interests.