The government is preparing a large-scale repatriation effort for thousands of Thai nationals stranded in Cambodia amid ongoing border clashes, National Security Council (NSC) secretary-general Chatchai Bangchuad said on Tuesday.

Thailand is stepping up efforts to inspect domestic shipping vessels in a bid to prevent fuel and military supplies being diverted to Cambodia as the border tension between the two nations persists.

The move came as China’s government urged both nations to exercise “utmost restraint” and de-escalate tensions.

Thailand said it’s taking steps to restrict exports of fuel and arms through a checkpoint with Laos on fears the goods are being diverted to Cambodia as the border clash between the two countries intensifies.

The two sides are battling over longstanding competing claims to patches of frontier land, some of which contain centuries-old temple ruins.

Bangkok says Phnom Penh must be first to declare a ceasefire and cooperate 'sincerely' on demining the border.

Jenni Lipa, 76, leads the Cambodian Community Dream Organization (CCDO), providing clean water, education, and microloans to 200,000 people, showcasing the crucial role of NGOs in Cambodia.