A significant ceasefire agreement was signed on Sunday between Thailand and Cambodia during a ceremony attended by U.S. President Donald Trump in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This agreement aims to halt skirmishes along the disputed border between the two nations, a conflict that escalated earlier this year. As part of the agreement, Thailand will release Cambodian prisoners, while Cambodia will begin withdrawing heavy artillery.
The signing ceremony marks a notable diplomatic achievement, with Trump claiming, “We did something that a lot of people said couldn’t be done.” Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet described the event as a “historic day,” while Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized that the agreement lays “the building blocks for a lasting peace.” A group of regional observers will monitor the ceasefire to ensure that fighting does not resume.
Trump’s Diplomatic Engagement in Southeast Asia
This event was Trump’s first official engagement upon arriving for the annual summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Malaysia. The trip offers Trump an opportunity to enhance his reputation as an international dealmaker. His administration has faced criticism over tariffs that have impacted global trade, and he is concurrently addressing domestic challenges, including a government shutdown dispute with the Democrats.
Trump arrived in the Malaysian capital shortly before 0200 GMT and participated in a ceremonial dance with local performers, showcasing both the American and Malaysian flags. Later, he is expected to sign agreements with Malaysia concerning trade and critical minerals, as the U.S. seeks to reduce reliance on China amid ongoing trade tensions.
The recent ceasefire follows a series of violent clashes in July 2023, which resulted in dozens of casualties and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. The conflict is rooted in competing territorial claims, and violence has periodically erupted along the border. Trump’s economic leverage, particularly his threats to withhold trade agreements, is credited with motivating both countries to engage in negotiations for peace.
Implications of the Agreement
According to Ou Virak, president of Phnom Penh’s Future Forum think tank, Trump’s use of tariffs was a significant factor in the swift agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. He noted, “The fact that Trump was holding the tariff card was actually very, very significant,” suggesting this pressure was crucial in achieving the ceasefire.
The agreement also allows Trump to present himself as a peacemaker on the global stage. He has actively campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize, highlighting conflicts he claims to have resolved. During the summit, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised the ceasefire, stating, “It reminds us that reconciliation is not concession, but an act of courage.”
Thai foreign ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura described the agreement as a “joint declaration” reflecting both countries’ commitment to renewing their relations. He emphasized that this agreement is just the beginning of a long process.
Trump’s visit also includes discussions about tariffs, particularly with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He has expressed frustration with Canada over a television ad criticizing his tariffs and recently announced plans to increase tariffs on Canadian goods. Trump maintains an optimistic outlook regarding his upcoming meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in South Korea, hoping to make progress on various trade issues.
As Trump continues his engagement with ASEAN and other international partners, the outcomes of his discussions will be closely watched to determine their impact on longstanding trade and diplomatic relationships.
