Beijing hosted a pivotal trilateral dialogue this week as scholars from China, Cambodia, and Thailand convened to advance implementation of the landmark Fuxian consensus – a peace framework credited with halting 18 months of hostilities between the Southeast Asian neighbors.
From Battlefield to Boardroom
The Track II conference at China Foreign Affairs University marks the latest step in China's sustained mediation since clashes erupted along the Cambodia-Thailand border in July 2025. Professor Zhai Kun of Peking University noted: "What began as emergency diplomacy has evolved into a structured process emphasizing Asian solutions to Asian security challenges."
The Fuxian Blueprint
Building on December 2025's breakthrough agreement, this week's discussions focused on practical measures to cement the ceasefire, rebuild cross-border trade, and restore diplomatic channels. Recent progress includes the safe return of 18 Cambodian soldiers detained during border skirmishes.
Scholars Bridge Divides
Observers highlight a notable shift in tone since early conflict stages. "Where there was once mutual suspicion, we now see technical discussions on water resource management and joint infrastructure projects," said one Thai participant, speaking anonymously due to protocol.
The mechanism demonstrates China's growing role as regional peace facilitator, with Beijing providing both political backing and academic platforms for conflict resolution. As implementation progresses, attention turns to planned economic cooperation talks scheduled for April 2026 in Phnom Penh.
