BANGKOK, Thailand – China’s latest arms delivery to Cambodia has ignited a wave of fury in Thailand, with ultranationalist circles speaking of betrayal and security circles questioning their longstanding fraternal relationship.
New tanks, old anger
The delivery of Chinese T-59D tanks to Phnom Penh has been met with widespread anger in Thailand. This marks the first tranche of a large order exceeding 100 units, with many Thais reacting with outright rage.
Renowned military reporter Wassana Nanuam reported that Thai security forces are displeased with China’s move. These officials are reportedly questioning the decades-old motto that Thais and Chinese are siblings.
China’s cool realpolitik
The Chinese embassy in Bangkok quickly issued a clarification, stating that the order from Phnom Penh was placed before the military clashes between the two countries last year. They asserted that Thailand was not deceived, and the business deal predates the conflict.
Nevertheless, the incident highlights a harsh reality: Beijing is competing with the US in the region and seeks to maintain Cambodia’s goodwill. China is willing to sell arms to any buyer, including Thailand, should it desire more tanks or submarines.
America distrusts its old partner
While Beijing supplies tanks, the US has refused Thailand’s request to purchase modern F-35 fighter jets. Even former junta leader Prayut Chan-o-cha attempted to acquire these jets, but Washington blocked the sale.
The reason is stark: America does not fully trust its oldest Asian ally, fearing that the high-tech aircraft could be compromised and fall into Chinese hands. Unrealistic expectations of both major powers only cloud judgment.
Closed border hits Japan hard
The ongoing closure of the Thai-Cambodian border is impacting not only the two nations but also a key partner. Japanese manufacturers are suffering from broken supply chains as goods can no longer pass freely across the border.
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow recently lauded Japan during a visit. However, Tokyo’s demand for border reopening is persistently ignored by his government, even as Uniqlo clothing from Cambodia is available in Bangkok stores.
Handshake becomes a political issue
The current absurdity is underscored by Prime Minister Anutin’s public justification for a simple handshake. He extended his hand to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet during a meeting in Vietnam.
Anutin explained that “If not a handshake, what else? Before a meeting of heads of state and government, there is usually a reception room. Whoever comes in, we must greet them with a handshake. Regardless of any issues, we must show them respect as the leader of their country.”
Air force gears up and practices for emergencies
The Royal Thai Air Force has since reviewed and adjusted its troop deployment at U-Tapao Airport. The aim is to better respond to potential threats from the east and protect Thailand’s maritime interests.
Concurrently, training exercises with AIM-9 air-to-air missiles are being conducted to enhance air defense capabilities. Operational readiness is to be ensured around the clock, signaling the depth of distrust towards their neighbor.
Mango dispute becomes a recurring conflict
Even dessert is not immune to these disputes: both countries wasted time and energy last week debating whether mango with sticky rice is originally Thai or Cambodian. Such cultural battles only fuel further animosity.
This is neither the first nor the last time such food origin disputes will arise, while other nations focus on more productive endeavors.
Hostage to ultranationalism
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow emphasized during a meeting his commitment to resolving the conflict diplomatically. However, even he and the Anutin government appear trapped in a cycle of ultranationalism with little escape. A brief conflict last year has escalated into a cold war, forcing both countries to spend increasing tax revenues on weapons instead of investing in tourism and trade. The process following the UNCLOS is just beginning, and an end to the escalation is nowhere in sight.