Thai Scholar Advocates People-to-People Ties for Thailand-Cambodia Reconciliation
Event summary
- Narut Charoonsri, Associate Professor at Chiang Mai University, emphasized the importance of people-to-people ties for Thailand-Cambodia reconciliation during a China-Cambodia-Thailand Track II dialogue held in Beijing on February 10, 2026.
- The Fuxian Consensus, reached in late 2025, has received little attention in Thai society despite being praised by foreign ministers from both Cambodia and Thailand.
- Narut highlighted the challenges of promoting the consensus due to public opinion splits between pro-China and anti-China sentiments in Thailand.
- The dialogue emphasized grassroots ties and trust-building, with discussions on revising textbooks, improving mutual understanding, and addressing disinformation.
The big picture
The border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have disrupted supply chains and cross-border trade, affecting economic growth across the region. China's role as a regional power and key investor in both countries is crucial for managing conflicts and promoting dialogue. The emphasis on people-to-people ties and long-term approaches to peace reflects a bottom-up perspective that could shape future diplomatic relations.
What we're watching
- Public Perception
- How the lack of recognition of the Fuxian Consensus in Thai society will affect its implementation and the pace at which Thailand and Cambodia can reconcile.
- China's Role
- Whether China can sustain its constructive role in regional stability without facing backlash over perceived interference.
- Economic Cooperation
- The pace at which economic and diplomatic relations between Thailand and Cambodia will recover, given the focus on grassroots ties and trust-building.