China denies supplying arms for Thai-Cambodian border clashes

BANGKOK, Dec 16 (TNA) - China on Wednesday denied providing weaponry to support Cambodia in its recent border clashes with Thailand, clarifying that defense cooperation with both Southeast Asian nations is historical and not directed at any third party.

The remarks made by the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson and shared by the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok, follows reports that Thai forces seized Chinese-made military equipment, including anti-tank missiles, near the Chong An Ma pass.

Speaking at a regular press briefing on Dec. 17, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry addressed questions regarding the origin of the munitions found at the conflict site.

"China has maintained normal defense cooperation with both Thailand and Cambodia in the past," the spokesperson said. "This cooperation is not aimed at any third party and has no connection to the current border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia."

Thai military officials recently reported the discovery of several Chinese-manufactured weapons systems following a confrontation in the Chong An Ma pass, raising concerns about external military aid.

Beijing emphasized its neutral stance, asserting that any Chinese hardware present in the region is the result of long-standing bilateral agreements rather than recent intervention. -819 (TNA)