At a Glance
- Thailand and Cambodia sign ceasefire after 100+ deaths; China mediates talks in Yunnan.
- China pledges 20 million yuan ($2.8 million) in emergency aid to Cambodia.
- A 72-hour observation period precedes the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers held by Thailand.
- Why it matters: The pause could stabilize a border that has displaced over half a million people.
The ceasefire, signed Sunday, follows weeks of fighting that killed more than 100 people and displaced over half a million residents. Beijing is positioning itself as a key mediator, hosting the first of two days of talks in Yunnan province.
Talks Begin in Yunnan
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn met in Yunnan under the mediation of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The meeting aimed to secure a sustained ceasefire and promote lasting peace, according to Sihasak’s office.
China’s Mediating Role
China, alongside the United States and Malaysia, is vying to be the primary broker in the dispute. The United States, through President Donald Trump, has threatened to withhold trade privileges unless a July ceasefire is reached.
President Donald Trump stated:
> “I want to congratulate both great leaders on their brilliance in coming to this rapid and very fair conclusion. It was FAST & DECISIVE, as all of these situations should be!”
Ceasefire Details
The agreement includes a 72-hour observation period. At its conclusion, Thailand agreed to repatriate 18 Cambodian soldiers it has held since July. The release satisfies a major Cambodian demand.
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Casualties | 100+ killed |
| Displaced | Over half a million |
| Observation period | 72 hours |
| Prisoners repatriated | 18 soldiers |
| Aid pledged | 20 million yuan ($2.8 million) |
China also announced 20 million yuan in emergency humanitarian aid for Cambodia, with the first batch-food, tents, blankets-arriving Sunday, as reported by Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin.
Chinese Ambassador Wang Wenbin wrote on Facebook:
> “The first batch of aid, including food, tents and blankets, has arrived in Cambodia.”
Sihasak emphasized that Thailand wants China to play a constructive role in ensuring a sustainable ceasefire and to signal to Cambodia against reigniting conflict.
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow said:
> “Thailand does not see China merely as a mediator in our conflict with Cambodia but wants China to play a constructive role in ensuring a sustainable ceasefire by sending such signals to Cambodia as well.”
Key Takeaways
- Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a ceasefire after more than 100 deaths.
- China is mediating talks and pledging 20 million yuan in aid.
- A 72-hour observation period will precede the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers.
The talks in Yunnan mark a significant step toward lasting peace along the contested border, with China playing a pivotal mediating role.
