Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stepped into diplomatic high gear this week, holding urgent calls with Cambodian and Thai counterparts amid deadly border clashes that have claimed dozens of lives. The December 18 talks come as tensions reach boiling point between the Southeast Asian neighbors.
Ceasefire Push Gains Momentum
During Thursday's calls, both Cambodia's Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn and Thailand's FM Sihasak Phuangketkeow welcomed Beijing's neutral mediation. Wang emphasized China's role as a peace broker, stating: "Every bullet fired breaks regional stability – dialogue is the only path forward."
Shuttle Diplomacy in Action ✈️
A Chinese special envoy has already embarked on emergency talks in both capitals. This follows reports of 21 Thai soldiers and 18 Cambodian civilians killed since fighting erupted – the deadliest border confrontation in recent memory.
ASEAN Unity at Stake
Wang warned the clashes threaten "the very fabric of Southeast Asian cooperation," urging immediate ceasefire and trust-building measures. Both sides acknowledged China's unique position to facilitate dialogue, with Thailand's FM noting: "When elephants fight, the grass suffers. We need wise friends to help calm the storm."
As night fell on December 18, regional observers watched for signs of progress from China's diplomatic marathon. One thing's clear: In this high-stakes conflict resolution attempt, every hour counts. ⏳
