China has reaffirmed its support for Southeast Asian-led diplomacy to resolve escalating border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, emphasizing regional solidarity through the "ASEAN Way." Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn in Beijing on Friday, pledging cooperation to maintain stability in one of Asia's most economically dynamic regions.
"The clashes resulting in casualties are deeply distressing," said Wang, who also serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. He attributed the tensions to "historical legacies left by Western colonialists" while urging restraint and dialogue.
China praised Malaysia – this year's ASEAN chair – for mediating under the bloc's consensus-driven approach, which prioritizes non-interference and peaceful conflict resolution. As a neighbor to both nations, Wang stated China maintains "a fair and impartial stance" and will support de-escalation efforts.
The remarks come as ASEAN faces one of its first major tests of 2024, balancing sovereignty concerns with collective security. Analysts note China's endorsement strengthens ASEAN's central role in regional affairs, a priority for member states wary of external power rivalries.
For investors, the conflict highlights risks in Southeast Asia's interconnected economies, where cross-border trade and infrastructure projects depend on stable neighborly relations. Over 650,000 Thai and Cambodian workers are employed in each other's countries, according to ASEAN data.
