China sends $2.8m aid as Cambodia conflict eases

China has pledged 20 million yuan (£2.2m) in emergency humanitarian aid to Cambodia, aimed at supporting civilians displaced by recent border clashes with Thailand. The announcement coincided with a trilateral meeting in Yunnan province involving Cambodian Foreign Affairs Minister Prak Sokhonn, his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, and Thailand’s Sihasak Phuangketkeow.

The Chinese ambassador to Cambodia, Wang Wenbin, confirmed that the first batch of supplies — including food, tents and blankets — has already arrived. He said the aid was intended to help communities “improve living conditions and overcome current difficulties” following weeks of fighting.

Renewed clashes since 7 December forced around 640,000 people from their homes. A ceasefire, agreed at the General Border Committee meeting and implemented at noon on Saturday, has brought a fragile calm, with no reports of gunfire or airstrikes since.

Sokhonn, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, expressed gratitude for China’s role in backing the ceasefire and highlighted the “ironclad friendship” underpinning bilateral ties. A statement from Cambodia’s foreign ministry praised China’s support for resolving disputes through diplomacy and mutual respect, describing it as vital for advancing “a just and lasting peace.”

The trilateral talks are designed to consolidate the ceasefire and address the humanitarian fallout of the conflict. China has positioned itself as a facilitator of dialogue, encouraging “candid and constructive exchanges” between Cambodia and Thailand.

With hundreds of thousands displaced and tensions still simmering along the frontier, Beijing’s aid package underscores its growing influence in Southeast Asia’s conflict diplomacy — and its determination to be seen as a stabilising force in the region.

-2025-12-30