Thu Dec 18 12:31:43 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Hindu’s December 18, 2025, e-Paper reports on the ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia. Amidst reports that Thai troops seized Chinese-made weapons from Cambodian positions, China’s Defence Ministry asserts that its defense cooperation (including arms trade) with both Cambodia and Thailand is unrelated to the conflict and not aimed at any third party. China expresses hope for a swift ceasefire and emphasizes its role as an advocate for peace and talks.
News Article:

China Denies Involvement in Thai-Cambodia Border Conflict Amidst Weaponry Claims

Beijing, December 18, 2025 (The Hindu e-Paper) – As clashes intensify along the Thailand-Cambodia border, China’s Defence Ministry has vehemently denied any connection between its defense cooperation with the two Southeast Asian nations and the ongoing conflict.

The statement comes in response to reports that Thai military forces seized Chinese-manufactured weapons from Cambodian positions during recent fighting. The ministry refuted any implication that its arms trade with either country was linked to the border dispute.

“China’s defence cooperation with Cambodia and Thailand… does not target any third party and is completely unrelated to the Cambodia-Thailand border conflict,” the Ministry stated in a release on its social media account. They further cautioned against “subjective speculation and malicious hype.”

Beijing reiterated its desire for a swift resolution to the conflict, urging both sides to reach a ceasefire as soon as possible. “China is and will continue to advocate for peace and talks,” the statement concluded.

The renewed fighting along the Thai-Cambodia border has raised international concerns.

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