Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on Thailand and Cambodia to resolve their long-standing border dispute during meetings with both countries’ leaders on July 17, 2026, on the sidelines of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai.

The border conflict, centered on competing territorial claims around an ancient temple complex, escalated last year into the deadliest fighting between the neighbors in over a decade, resulting in more than 100 military and civilian deaths and hundreds of injuries. A ceasefire reached in December 2025 has largely held, though both sides have accused each other of violations.

In his meeting with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Xi emphasized that resolving the conflict was in the “common and long-term interests” of both countries. He also conveyed a similar message to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, affirming China's support for a negotiated solution.

According to the state news agency Xinhua, Xi called for dialogue between the two sides and pledged that China would play a “constructive role” in facilitating peace.

The dispute has persisted for decades with periodic outbreaks of violence, underscoring the importance of diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting stability in the region.

Sources