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Historic ASEAN Summit: Thailand and Cambodia sign peace treaty!
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announces peace summit with Cambodia to resolve conflicts and promote stability.
Historic ASEAN Summit: Thailand and Cambodia sign peace treaty!
On October 26, 2023, Kuala Lumpur was the scene of a significant event for the regions of Thailand and Cambodia. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced during a live broadcast on Facebook that a peacekeeping declaration will be signed during an ASEAN summit. This event marks a turning point in the ongoing tensions between the two countries that have existed for many years.
Anutin emphasized that the four main points of the declaration do not put Thailand at a disadvantage. The agreement, which does not require approval as it has already been approved by the Cabinet, covers the withdrawal of heavy weapons, the clearance of explosives, cooperation in the fight against crime, particularly in the technological field, and the joint management of disputed territories.
The context of the summit
The signed declaration is part of a larger peace agreement reached during the summit led by US President Donald Trump. Trump called the signing "historic" and highlighted that Thailand will release Cambodian prisoners in exchange for Cambodia withdrawing heavy artillery. This comes against the backdrop of an ongoing ceasefire brought about following an open border conflict between the two countries in July 2025, in which 43 people were killed and hundreds of thousands displaced. Pressure from the international community, particularly from the USA, played a crucial role. Trump's appearance at the summit was his first in a long time, and he portrayed himself as a mediator between countries to find a sustainable solution.
Malaysia, chairing the ASEAN Summit, also supports efforts for peace and stability in the region. Successful talks between Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet led to an agreement, with the border dispute between the two neighbors having been a basis for these negotiations for over a century. In view of these historical developments, Anutin was optimistic. He asked the Thai people for confidence and support for the upcoming signing of the declaration.
The challenges remain
Despite the peace agreement reached, tensions between Thailand and Cambodia remain high. Thailand accuses Cambodia of planting landmines along the border, while Cambodia denies these allegations. Anutin assured the public that Thailand remains ready to defend its sovereignty and integrity. “We are peaceful, but we are also ready to defend ourselves,” said Anutin
The international community will closely monitor the implementation of the new agreement to ensure that peace efforts are not in vain. Malaysia strives to act as a bridge between the conflicting parties and stabilize the region for future generations.
In view of these developments, much more than just peace between Thailand and Cambodia is being called for. With a view to further geopolitical tensions in the region, for example in Myanmar, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop in the coming weeks. The times ahead could be the key to long-term peace in Southeast Asia for all involved.