26/10/2025
President Trump Brokers Historic Cambodia–Thailand Peace Deal During 2025 ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
President Donald J. Trump achieved a major diplomatic breakthrough at the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — announcing a landmark peace treaty between Thailand and Cambodia, a conflict that has loomed over Southeast Asia for decades.
“This is so exciting because we did something that a lot of people said couldn’t be done, and we saved maybe millions of lives on this one peace deal itself,” President Trump said, standing amid regional leaders.
👉Peace Alongside Tribute
Before the signing ceremony, President Trump expressed condolences to Thailand on the passing of Queen Sirikit and spoke of her legacy:
“She was a beautiful, incredible woman who is so respected all over the world… The people of Thailand will remember her forever as the embodiment of dignity, kindness, and grace.”
He then linked that legacy to the peace deal:
“Today we honor the memory by bringing the blessing of peace to the nation she dearly loved.”
👉Diplomacy Meets Economic Strategy
The gathering generated global attention not just for peace but for trade. Alongside the treaty, the U.S. signed major economic agreements:
-A trade deal with Cambodia
-A critical-minerals cooperation pact with Thailand
“The United States will have robust commerce and cooperation … with both nations as long as they live in peace,” Trump declared.
👉America’s Resurgence on Display
In his remarks, the President framed this moment as part of a broader comeback:
“A year and a half ago, we were a dead country. Now we’re the hottest country anywhere in the world.”
👉Significance for Southeast Asia
The Cambodia–Thailand peace treaty was expected to be formally signed during the ASEAN summit — a diplomatic coup given the countries’ border clashes this summer that displaced hundreds of thousands and involved dozens of casualties.
By pairing peace with prosperity, President Trump positioned the U.S. not just as a mediator, but as a partner in regional stability and economic growth.
“On behalf of the United States, I’m proud to help settle this conflict and forge a future for the region where proud, independent nations can prosper and thrive in safety, security, and peace.”