The Association of Southeast Asian Nations stands, above all, for the preservation of peace among its 10 members. Now Asean’s fundamental principles of consensus and non-interference in one another’s affairs are being put to the test by deadly clashes along a disputed border between Thailand and Cambodia. Thailand’s acting leader has not ruled out an
escalation into war.
The challenge to Asean’s credibility and implications for regional stability have prompted deepening international concern, with regional neighbour and friend China at the forefront. In an interview with state television, Beijing’s UN ambassador Fu Cong called for a de-escalation of the conflict and
confirmed Beijing was trying to facilitate communication between the two sides in the hope of stabilising the situation. “Asean has a long-standing tradition of resolving differences through peaceful means,” he said. Foreign minister Wang Yi said China will continue to play a “constructive role” in helping to ease regional tensions.
Thai and Cambodian forces have clashed along their shared border in a major escalation that included artillery fire, tanks, rockets and Thai air strikes.
The conflict has led to
at least 33 deaths, mostly civilians. More than 138,000 people are reported to have been evacuated on the Thai side, with 35,000 on the Cambodian side.
Thailand and Cambodia have long-standing border disputes, primarily over contested areas near ancient temples, for which Wang blames past Western colonisation. The latest clash follows a landmine explosion on Wednesday that wounded five Thai soldiers.
Thailand’s acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai has warned the conflict could develop into war. Both sides should heed appeals for a ceasefire and diplomatic solution, not only from China but also the UN secretary general, the United States and Anwar Ibrahim, the prime minister of Malaysia, the current Asean chair.
