Bangkok: Thai and Chinese defense ministries have held open talks, affirming their neutral stance on the arms supply to Cambodia. China's Defense Minister engaged in discussions with Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, expressing China's position as a superpower with world-class military equipment, yet emphasizing that it would not supply Cambodia with these arms. The discussions underlined that both countries are good friends and must maintain neutrality. The Thai Minister of Defence also inquired about the possibility of additional arms shipments during an informal meeting.
According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Thailand's Minister of Defence, stated post-meeting with Admiral Dong Jun, China's Minister of National Defence, that the visit was official. Following a discussion with President Xi Jinping, Lt. Gen. Adul highlighted the Chinese Minister of Defence's commitment to informal dialogues and a neutral stance from China, offering assistance while maintaining strategic partnerships with both Thailand and Cambodia. He noted that China's military equipment is among the best globally, and its provision of arms follows an existing treaty from 2016, with a careful, delayed approach not aligning with conflict situations. This reflects the strategic partnership and the importance China places on Thailand.
In the afternoon, the Chinese Minister of Defense and his delegation are scheduled to meet with Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, followed by a formal dinner in the evening. The following morning includes a lunch before the delegation's departure.
Regarding China's proposals, Lt. Gen. Adul mentioned offers extending beyond military equipment to include cooperation in training, education, technology, and AI. However, he emphasized the security-related nature of these discussions, with limited communication due to the sensitivity of certain aspects.
On mediating between Thailand and Cambodia, the Chinese Defense Minister maintained a neutral stance, highlighting the friendship with both nations and adherence to existing treaties. He stressed that any military provision would be delayed, aligning with the current border situation between Thailand and Cambodia. He noted that China would provide anything to enhance the capabilities of its adversaries but has not done so, echoing the delayed approach.
China seeks to enhance military relations with Thailand and has extended an invitation for official visits, which Lt. Gen. Adul has accepted. The discussions were distinctly military in nature, as discerned from the expressions during the talks.
When questioned about the specific military equipment provided to Cambodia, including corvettes, Lt. Gen. Adul stated that China, as a superpower, could enhance adversary capabilities but has not yet done so. He urged finding information on how the provided equipment compares to Thailand's. Regarding ammunition provision, Lt. Gen. Adul expressed uncertainty.