Trade and Ceasefire Negotiations Between Thailand and Cambodia
President Donald Trump utilized trade discussions with the US on Saturday to initiate ceasefire talks regarding a territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.
During his time in Scotland with British Prime Minister Kiel Starmer, Trump shared details about his efforts to bring both nations together for negotiations. He emphasized that his administration is aiming for a ceasefire but doesn’t plan to engage in formal discussions with either side until the conflict has settled. This initiative began with a call to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Mane.
My discussion with the Cambodian Prime Minister centered on halting hostilities with Thailand. I’ve urged Thailand’s representative prime minister to observe a ceasefire as well, to bring an end to the raging conflict. Interestingly, we’re involved in trade discussions with both nations, yet no one is interested in trading while fighting persists. The outreach to Thailand is ongoing. My conversation with Cambodia has concluded, but we hope Thailand will consider a ceasefire based on their response. It’s all quite complicated, and while many lives have been lost, it’s reminiscent of the situation between Pakistan and India.
About 20 minutes later, Trump announced that he had a productive conversation with Thailand’s acting prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
“Like Cambodia, Thailand is eager for an immediate ceasefire and peace. I’m trying to relay that message to the Cambodian Prime Minister. After speaking to both sides, the elements of ceasefire, peace, and prosperity seem quite plausible,” Trump stated.
By 12:23 PM, less than an hour after his initial conversation with Cambodia, Trump reported that both sides had consented to meet for ceasefire negotiations.
I just had a very fruitful call with the Cambodian Prime Minister, where I updated him on my discussions with Thailand’s acting prime minister. They are all in favor of an immediate ceasefire and peace. Additionally, both countries are interested in returning to the “trading table” with the US. They have agreed to meet soon, and I believe a ceasefire—and ultimately, peace—can be achieved! It’s truly a privilege to engage with both countries, which have such rich histories and cultures. They hope to foster friendship for years ahead. Once everything is settled, I look forward to finalizing trade agreements with both!
Since his presidency began, Trump has successfully mediated ceasefires in various regions, including between Israel and Iran, India and Pakistan, and Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
