China-Asean Studies Center

08/04/2026

In his commentary on “China-Proposed Initiatives and ASEAN-centred Peacebuilding in the Cambodia–Thailand Border Conflict,” Mr. Thong Mengdavid, Deputy Director at the China-ASEAN Studies Center, emphasized that ASEAN should remain the central platform for managing and resolving the dispute, given its established norms and regional legitimacy. At the same time, he noted that China can play a constructive complementary role by providing diplomatic support, development resources, and confidence-building measures, thereby helping to transform contested border areas into zones of cooperation, economic connectivity, and long-term stability.

Contemporary World Cambodia VoL 03, No. 04

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Volume 3 Number 4 ( October / November / December 2025 ) Contemporary World Magazine Cambodia

02/04/2026

On 2 April 2026, Mr. Oeung Venghong, Fellow Research at China-ASEAN Studies Center, published an article on Khmer Times, highlighting that the longstanding territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand reached a critical flashpoint in early 2026, transitioning from a localised border skirmish into an intense diplomatic struggle. He emphasized on how Thailand is utilising international media and diplomatic manipulation to justify its encroachment on Cambodia territory while manoeuvring to prevent France from providing map privileges and technical assistance to help Cambodia resolve border issues with Thailand.

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The longstanding territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand reached a critical flashpoint in early 2026, transitioning from a localised border skirmish into an intense diplomatic struggle. While a fragile ceasefire was brokered in late 2025, the peace has been undermined by Thailand’s media...

02/04/2026

On March 2, 2026, Ms. Pichanvorlak Rath, Research Fellow at the China-ASEAN Studies Center, published an article on Cambodianess, analysing the evolving Cambodia-Thailand border dispute. She argues that the situation has shifted away from expectations of an imminent third armed confrontation toward an endurance-based strategy driven by Thailand’s gradual structural encroachment and infrastructure expansion. She emphasizes that, rather than relying on direct military escalation, Thailand is incrementally consolidating its position on the ground through troop presence, construction, and controlled activities, while simultaneously shaping narratives that frame its actions as defensive and Cambodia’s responses as escalatory, thereby reinforcing its strategic advantage over time.

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The territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has entered a new phase. Contrary to expectations of a third armed confrontation, the current dynamics ...

28/08/2025

On 27 August 2025, Mr. Thong Mengdavid, Deputy Director of the China-ASEAN Studies Center, published an article on FULCRUM, highlighting that the 24–28 July 2025 armed clashes between Cambodia and Thailand reflect longstanding historical disputes, contested legal interpretations, and nationalist politics. He emphasized that a purely military or unilateral response risks perpetuating cycles of provocation and undermining ASEAN unity, advocating instead for a cooperative, trust-based, multi-pronged approach.

A military or unilateral approach to the Thai-Cambodian dispute would only trigger cycles of provocation. The two sides need to use a multifaceted approach to rebuild the bridge of cooperation.

11/08/2025

We are excited to welcome our new batch of interns to the China-ASEAN Studies Center! These aspiring young scholars will embark on a journey to deepen their research skills and contribute to strengthening resilient ties between China and ASEAN.

24/06/2025

20/05/2025

“Navigating Uncertainty – Cambodia’s Path Beyond LDC Graduation” by Kosalthanan Neth.

This insightful paper explores the challenges and strategic policy options for Cambodia as it prepares for its transition from Least Developed Country (LDC) status. A timely contribution to national and regional development discourse.

🔗 Read more:https://camtech.edu.kh/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Formatted_NAVIGATING_UNCERTAINTY_LDC_Graduation_Kosalthanan_Neth.pdf

19/05/2025

On 07 April 2025, the China-ASEAN Studies Center was officially inaugurated, a landmark step toward strengthening academic exchange, policy dialogue, and regional cooperation between China and ASEAN.

08/04/2025

24/03/2025

With growing demand in China, Cambodia has a unique opportunity to expand its agricultural exports. Enhancing quality standards, improving logistics, and strengthening trade partnerships will be key to unlocking this potential.

Read more: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501653628/how-cambodia-can-boost-agricultural-exports-to-china/

The bilateral relationship between Cambodia and China is among the strongest in the region, with Chinese President Xi Jinping describing Cambodia as an “Iron Clad” friend.