Prime Minister Anutin held talks with the Chinese special envoy regarding the Thai-Cambodian border issue, expressing a wish for peace along the border and reaffirming Thailand's clear position. He called on the public to send their support to frontline soldiers defending national sovereignty.
On 22 Dec 2025 GMT+7 at the Government House, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, met with H.E. Mr. Deng Xijun, Chinese Ambassador and Special Representative for Asian Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Zhang Jianwei, Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, to discuss the Thai-Cambodian border situation. Later at 13:45, Mr. Anutin said the talks addressed the Thai-Cambodian conflict. Mr. Deng had already met with the Cambodian side and then met with Thailand to discuss details. Given China's neutral status, it does not wish to see conflicts in this region.
When asked if China requested Thailand to make any agreement regarding the border situation, Mr. Anutin replied that China did not ask for any agreement but only encouraged peacebuilding. Thailand already has a clear stance. Regarding the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Malaysia, Mr. Anutin said Mr. Sihasak Phuangketkeow, Foreign Minister, is attending and will return tonight. He will listen to the report first. At the National Security Council meeting, it was confirmed that the Thai-Cambodian issue is a bilateral matter.
He called on the public to support the brave soldiers.
Asked what message he had for the public while the situation remains unsettled, Mr. Anutin said the Thai military is protecting Thailand’s sovereignty with utmost effort and sacrifice. Although there have been losses from the planned military operations, the objective remains. He asked the public to support the frontline soldiers who are dedicated and fearless amid dangers.
“I assure you, having visited the border multiple times, I still see local people encouraging the soldiers and officials defending our land, cooperating by staying in shelters we arranged for their safety. This allows soldiers to operate without worrying about their rear,” he said.
Regarding some shelter residents wanting to return home, Mr. Anutin said all involved parties—provincial governors, district chiefs, police, military, ministers—visit and encourage the people, explaining that the shelters are the safest places and that those protecting sovereignty need not worry about their families. He emphasized that the military understands how to restore normalcy as soon as possible and will not let the situation continue like this.