Top diplomats from Thailand and Cambodia kicked off two days of talks in China on Sunday as Beijing seeks to strengthen its role in mediating the two countries’ border dispute, a day after they signed a new ceasefire.

The ceasefire agreement signed on Saturday calls for a halt to weeks of fighting along their contested border that has killed more than 100 people and displaced over half a million in both countries.

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn were set to meet in Yunnan province for talks mediated by their Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.

The talks aim to ensure a sustained ceasefire and promote lasting peace between the countries, according to a statement by Sihasak’s office.

Wang was scheduled to join both bilateral meetings with each of the diplomats and a trilateral talk on Monday.

China has welcomed the ceasefire announcement, which freezes the front lines and allows for displaced civilians to return to their homes near the border.

A July truce was brokered by Malaysia and pushed through by pressure from US President Donald Trump, who threatened to withhold trade privileges unless Thailand and Cambodia agreed. Despite those deals, Thailand and Cambodia carried on a bitter propaganda war, and minor cross-border violence continued, erupting into heavy fighting in early December.

Meanwhile, the first batch of emergency humanitarian aid supplies provided by China to Cambodia arrived at the Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh on Sunday.

The relief items included tents, blankets and food.

Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Wang Wenbin and Cambodian Foreign Ministry Secretary of State Ung Rachana attended the handover ceremony.

Wang said China's aid to Cambodia will play a role in helping the Cambodian people affected by the border conflict.

He said Beijing will continue to play a positive and constructive role in consolidating the ceasefire situation for both parties.

Rachana thanked China for the aid on behalf of the Cambodian government and people. (AP/Xinhua)