US President Donald Trump is set to witness the signing of a significant peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia upon his arrival in Malaysia on Sunday. This development comes as Trump en route to Asia expressed his sadness over the recent passing of Thailand’s Queen Mother, Sirikit, who died late Friday at the age of 93.
In a post on Truth Social while aboard Air Force One, Trump conveyed his condolences to the people of Thailand, describing the loss as profound for the nation. The death of such a revered figure has prompted Thailand’s Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, to adjust his schedule for the upcoming ASEAN summit in Malaysia. Initially planning to attend the summit, Anutin opted to delay his departure in light of the Queen Mother’s passing, emphasizing the importance of the peace agreement with Cambodia.
Anutin confirmed that he had requested the signing of the peace deal to be moved to Sunday morning, just before Trump’s arrival. “I cancelled my trip to Malaysia today. However, regarding the peace deal between Thailand and Cambodia, I’ve asked them to reschedule for tomorrow morning instead,” Anutin stated during a local television broadcast.
The peace agreement comes after a violent resurgence of tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, which erupted into deadly military clashes in July, resulting in the deaths of over 40 individuals and the displacement of approximately 300,000 people. A ceasefire was declared after a five-day conflict, with Trump’s involvement acknowledged as instrumental in brokering the truce. However, both nations have continued to accuse one another of violating the terms of the agreement.
The royal family in Thailand holds a revered status, viewed as semi-divine by many citizens. The Queen Mother’s death is echoing throughout the nation, as expressions of grief and tributes are surfacing in various forms, including media coverage and public memorials. Anutin remarked on the loss during an urgent cabinet meeting on Saturday morning, declaring it a “great loss to the nation.”
As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on the ceremonial signing of the peace agreement, with hopes that it will pave the way for long-term stability between Thailand and Cambodia amid ongoing tensions in the region.
