Trump Looks Forward to Thailand-Cambodia Ceasefire Deal at ASEAN Summit

Post by : Saif Nasser

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – October 14, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to witness a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia during the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur later this month, Malaysian officials said. The summit will be held from October 26 to 28, bringing together leaders from Southeast Asia and key global partners.

Background of the Conflict

The tension between Thailand and Cambodia erupted in July 2025 over undemarcated points along their 817-kilometer border. The clashes lasted five days, killing at least 48 people and displacing hundreds of thousands, marking the worst fighting in over a decade.

Malaysia brokered an initial ceasefire on July 28, which helped reduce the violence. Both countries have now been working toward a permanent ceasefire, with U.S. support.

The Kuala Lumpur Accord

Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan said the ASEAN summit hopes to see the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Accord, a formal declaration designed to ensure lasting peace. The agreement will require both Thailand and Cambodia to remove mines, heavy artillery, and other military equipment from the disputed areas along their border.

Mohamad also explained that U.S. and Malaysian officials have been facilitating talks between the two nations. The Thai and Cambodian foreign ministers recently met in Kuala Lumpur to finalize the agreement with international observers present.

Trump’s Visit to Malaysia

President Trump is scheduled to visit Malaysia on October 26. During his visit, he is expected to witness the ceasefire signing and engage with leaders of ASEAN member states. While Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current chair of ASEAN, confirmed Trump’s attendance, Washington has not issued an official statement yet.

The U.S. reportedly objected to using the word “inclusivity” in the summit’s chairman statement, which is why only a chairman’s statement is expected rather than a joint declaration. Despite this, global attention remains high, as China, Japan, Russia, and other trading partners will also attend the summit.

Significance of the Ceasefire

The ceasefire represents a major step toward stability in Southeast Asia. The July conflict highlighted the fragility of peace along disputed borders in the region. Analysts say the successful signing of the Kuala Lumpur Accord could prevent future clashes, protect civilians, and strengthen regional cooperation.

Mohamad Hasan emphasized that the summit will not only cement peace between Thailand and Cambodia, but also demonstrate ASEAN’s role in resolving regional disputes with support from global partners.

Disclaimer

This article reports on the planned ASEAN summit and ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. MiddleEastBulletin provides this information for public awareness only. Readers should follow updates from official government sources for verified developments.