Beijing: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated on Thursday that the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is threatening the unity of ASEAN, the regional Southeast Asian bloc. Wang's comments came during separate phone calls with the Cambodian and Thai foreign ministers, Prak Sokhonn and Sihasak Phuangketkeow.

According to Anadolu Agency, the two foreign ministers provided Wang with an update on the latest developments in the conflict and expressed their willingness to de-escalate tensions and implement a ceasefire. Wang expressed his deep sorrow over the civilian casualties resulting from the conflict and emphasized that China, as a friend to both nations, is keen to see an end to the armed confrontation.

Wang highlighted that the continuation of these clashes would be detrimental to both countries and undermine the unity of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He stressed that the immediate priority should be to establish a ceasefire. The Chinese Foreign Minister reiterated China's commitment to promoting peace talks and maintaining fairness and impartiality regarding the Cambodia-Thailand border issue, while also supporting ASEAN's mediation attempts.

On Wednesday, China announced that a special envoy for Asian Affairs would embark on a "shuttle-diplomacy trip to Cambodia and Thailand" starting Thursday, aiming to facilitate peace between the two nations. The conflict, which began on December 7, has resulted in the deaths of at least 55 individuals from both sides.

Thai authorities have reported the loss of 21 soldiers and 16 civilians, while Cambodia's Interior Ministry stated that 18 Cambodian civilians have been killed, with an additional 78 injured. The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia is long-standing and has frequently led to violent clashes, including an incident in July where at least 48 people were killed.