BANGKOK — The Chinese Embassy in Bangkok has firmly denied reports that China provided military equipment to Cambodia for use in the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border clashes.
The controversy reignited after The New York Times published a report suggesting that while “China played an active role in trying to bring about the cease-fire between Thailand and Cambodia,” accounts of weapons shipments “complicate Beijing’s effort to cast itself as a neutral peace broker in Southeast Asia.”
In a statement posted on the Chinese Embassy Bangkok’s Facebook page on October 2, 2025, a spokesperson addressed the allegations directly.
Embassy Statement
When asked about reports claiming Cambodia used Chinese-made rockets in the border clashes, the spokesperson said China has been working to de-escalate tensions as a friendly neighbor to both countries since the conflict began.
“China did not send any military equipment to Cambodia for use in the Thai-Cambodian border clashes,” the statement read. “The military equipment from China that Cambodia currently possesses all comes from pre-existing China-Cambodia cooperation projects.”
The embassy emphasized that China has no vested interest in the border dispute and supports ASEAN’s efforts to find a political solution through the “ASEAN Way.” Beijing expressed willingness to work closely with Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and other regional partners to promote a lasting ceasefire.
The statement concluded with a pointed message: “We urge the relevant individuals to consider the peace and stability of the region and the well-being of the people, and to do more positive and constructive things to de-escalate the situation between Thailand and Cambodia, instead of maliciously spreading false news and inciting chaos.”
Thai Officials Weigh In
Defense Minister General Nattaphon Nakpanit dismissed the New York Times report as old news, noting he had already addressed the issue with media in early February. He explained that Chinese weapons support to Cambodia predated the current conflict and was part of normal international relations between the two countries.
“At that time, there was no conflict between Thailand and Cambodia,” General Nattaphon said. “But if there are tensions like we see now, I’m confident China would handle the matter carefully.”
When pressed on whether China has sent additional weapons to Cambodia recently, the Defense Minister said intelligence reports show no such shipments. He acknowledged that some equipment may have remained in Cambodia after joint military exercises, though Cambodia has not publicly disclosed details—unlike Thailand, where parliamentary scrutiny has made most information available.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow took a measured approach, saying he would first speak with the Chinese Embassy. He noted that defense assistance between countries is standard practice and doesn’t necessarily mean China is helping Cambodia attack Thailand.
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