US President Donald Trump played a central role during a recent ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, where Cambodia and Thailand signed an agreement regarding their ongoing border dispute. Trump delivered the longest speech at the event, asserting that the day marked a significant achievement for Southeast Asia. He called the agreement “monumental” and referred to the leaders of both nations as “historic figures.” Trump recalled his involvement in the Thai-Cambodian border conflict, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy over leisure.
This ceremony was a requirement from Trump ahead of the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit, which he has attended intermittently in the past. During his remarks, he claimed his administration had ended “eight wars in eight months,” positioning himself as a peacemaker.
However, questions arise regarding the actual impact of the agreement, which Trump has labeled the “Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord.” It follows a ceasefire signed in July, also attributed to pressure from Trump. The current agreement includes the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the disputed border, the establishment of an interim observer team, and procedural updates for landmine removal. While Thai diplomats acknowledged that Trump’s involvement may bolster the agreement, the underlying border issues remain unresolved.
Following the ceremony, Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow avoided calling the agreement a peace accord, instead referring to it as a “Joint Declaration.” He described it as a “pathway to peace,” differing from Trump’s more grandiose claims. Cambodia expressed enthusiasm for the agreement, having sought international support for its stance, while Thailand emphasized a preference for bilateral resolution without external mediation.
The presence of Trump, who plans to leave shortly for other diplomatic engagements, has stirred hopes within ASEAN for improved relations, particularly amidst economic dependencies on the US market following recent tariff negotiations.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c93dy2kk7vzo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss